Mark Andrews has already established himself as one of the best tight ends in the NFL, but offensive coordinator Declan Doyle said his work habits continue to stand out. When discussing Baltimore's tight end room, Doyle pointed to Andrews as an example for younger players."If he's not our hardest worker on offense, he's one of the hardest workers on offense," Doyle said.Doyle noted that Andrews continues looking for ways to improve despite his success."He's a guy that's been in the league for quite some time, and he's still looking to refine his game," Doyle said. "So, that's something that you appreciate."Doyle also praised Durham Smythe and rookie tight ends Matt Hibner and Josh Cuevas, saying both young players have handled the learning process well.With Andrews leading the room, the Ravens believe they have a strong group in place heading into training camp.This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Mark Andrews leads Ravens tight end room by example

NEW YORK (AP) — José Ramírez doubled in three straight at-bats and drove in the go-ahead run against Cam Schlittler in the fifth inning before the Cleveland Guardians pulled away for a 9-4 victory over the New York Yankees on Tuesday night. Kyle Manzardo launched a two-run homer off Schlittler (7-3) in the fourth and rookie Travis Bazzana hit a three-run double off Camilo Doval in the eighth. Bazzana and Brayan Rocchio each had a sacrifice fly for the Guardians, who totaled 12 hits and scored their most runs since May 17.Paul Goldschmidt homered and knocked in all four runs for the Yankees, who lost for only the second time in eight games. They played without slugger Aaron Judge, who has a bone bruise in his upper right rib that is causing pain in his right shoulder.The three-time MVP missed his first game this season. He underwent testing Monday that revealed the bruise and was consulting with a team doctor on Tuesday.Ramírez entered the game in an 8-for-45 skid but doubled in the fourth, fifth and seventh. His first double came two batters before Manzardo homered into the right-center seats for a 3-2 lead.Goldschmidt's two-run single put New York ahead 4-3 in the bottom half, but the Guardians loaded the bases in the fifth after Patrick Bailey reached on an error by third baseman Amed Rosario and Rocchio was hit in the hand by a pitch. After a sacy fly by Bazzana tied it, Ramírez laced a 2-2 curveball over leaping first baseman Ben Rice and down the right-field line for a 5-4 lead.Ramírez added his second RBI double to score Rocchio in the seventh. It was the fifth time in his career Ramírez doubled three times and first since Aug. 26, 2024.Schlittler allowed five runs — four earned — and five hits in a season-low 4 1/3 innings.Goldschmidt hit a two-run homer in the third to give the Yankees a 2-1 lead. Cleveland starter Joey Cantillo permitted four runs and six hits in four innings. Five relievers followed, and Colin Holderman (4-1) stranded a runner in the fifth for the win.Up nextCleveland RHP Gavin Williams (8-3, 3.07 ERA) opposes New York RHP Gerrit Cole (1-0, 0.00) on Wednesday night.___AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/MLB

NEW YORK, NY - JUNE 02: Travis Bazzana #37 of the Cleveland Guardians drops his bat to run after hitting a three-run double in the eighth inning during the game between the Cleveland Guardians and the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium on Tuesday, June 2, 2026 in New York, New York. (Photo by Daniel Shirey/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images The Cleveland Guardians and New York Yankees began their three game series in New York. The game looked to be a nail biter with some back and forth between the two squads until Cleveland ultimately took an insurmountable lead. Joey Cantillo had a short start for Cleveland. Cantillo only pitched 4.0 innings on 91 pitches. He allowed all four of the Yankees runs on six hits and three walks. Cantillo struck out two batters before turning things over to the Guards bullpen. Colin Holderman, Tim Herrin, and Hunter Gaddis all threw strong scoreless innings. The Guardians put the first run of the game on the board in the top of the third inning. Patrick Bailey slapped a triple to center, putting himself into scoring position for Brayan Rocchio to hit a sacrifice fly. Your browser does not support the video tag. A two run home run brought the Yankees right back and in the lead in the bottom of the third. In the top of the fourth José Ramírez hit a lead off double to right. Kyle Manzardo hit a fly ball to the short porch to put two on the board and regain the lead for Cleveland. Your browser does not support the video tag. The Yankees reclaimed a one-run lead in the bottom of the fourth. Jazz Chisholm Jr. hit a one-out single, advancing to second with a José Caballero walk. A flyout and a stolen base put both runners in scoring position, allowing them to score easily on Paul Goldschmidt’s two-RBI single. In the top of the fifth Steven Kwan hit a lead off single to right field. Patrick Bailey reached on a fielding error by Amed Rosario. Brayan Rocchio, who was looking to bunt but did not offer, was hit by pitch to load the bases. Travis Bazzana hit a sacrifice fly for the first out of the inning, tying the game in the process. Your browser does not support the video tag. José hit a RBI double to score Bailey and force Aaron Boone to turn to the New York bullpen and giving Cleveland the lead again. Your browser does not support the video tag. This time New York didn’t have an answer as the bullpen locked the Yankees down. Brayan Rocchio kicked things off in the top of the seventh with a single on a grounder to left field. Rocchio quickly stole second base then caught Amed Rosario sleeping and stole third base too. José Ramírez hit a double to left to score Rocchio and put the Guards up by two runs. Your browser does not support the video tag. The top of the eighth inning is what ultimately sealed the victory for Cleveland. Angel Martínez hit a single to center and stole second after a successfully challenged out call on the play. Daniel Schneemann and Steven Kwan hit back-to-back singles. Kwan’s bunt ground ball single was expertly placed and his speedy baserunning allowed him to reach, loading the bases. With two-outs, Travis Bazzana came up with a huge swing. Your browser does not support the video tag. Bazzana’s three-run double put the Guardians up 5 runs and sent the Yankees fans on there way home. The Guardians didn’t put up another run, but Kyle Manzardo worked a very impressive 13 pitch walk in the top of the ninth. Shawn Armstrong and Matt Festa closed out the eighth and ninth innings without allowing a single baserunner. The Guardians finished the game with nine runs, twelve hits, and one error. Every Guardians hitter reached base with Chase DeLauter being the only batter to only record a walk, no hits. Tomorrow’s game will be a 7:05PM EDT start with Gavin Williams facing off against Garrit Cole.

NEW PALESTINE — At the end of four years, they hardly recognized themselves at all.This wasn’t the same Edgewood softball team that had plowed through the regular season and sectional.The senior-laden Mustangs not only had one of their most uncharacteristic outings of the year, but if it could go wrong, it did Tuesday, June 2. And host No. 5 New Palestine took advantage with a 7-1 win in their Class 3A regional battle.“What I told them is keep your head up,” Edgewood coach Mick Hammett said. “We won 27 games, a sectional against two teams that had a pitcher going to Tennessee and another (Cascade) that had been a state champ and had a lot of veteran players.“They’ve had a great season. Three sectional championships in four years and a conference championship in there, too. They can’t be upset; they have to be proud and keep their heads up.”More: Bloomington, Bedford, Martinsville area IHSAA softball sectional resultsThe Dragons (22-7) had just five hits, but a cluster of walks and errors and unusual plays piled up the runs. Edgewood had just four hits, but had runners on in the third, fourth, sixth and seventh innings and couldn’t move them along.An inconsistent strike zone leading to six of their eight strikeouts looking and four errors were among the things that frustrated the Mustangs (27-5).“They gotta know when it’s close, you’ve got to foul tip it or something,” Hammett said. ”You can’t leave it to (the umpire's) decision. You’ve gotta make the decision and be proactive there and get after it, and we just didn’t.”It was a frustrating way for a class with 92 wins and three sectional titles to walk out on.“This was definitely far from our best,” senior Madi Bland said. “Probably one of our worst games all year. Knowing we had just one hit less than them and it was that big of a difference (in the score), that just sucks. We don’t want to blame it on the umpires for a different strike zone, but also that kind of got in our heads.”All the same, it’s been quite the ride.“It’s been amazing,” Bland said. “All four years, we’ve come out and we’ve put up 20-plus win seasons and we’ve played for each other. It’s just been so much fun and a great high school career all around for us.”Tough start for EdgewoodIt looked good in the top of the first as Ally Bland singled, was sacrificed to second by Addison Yearby and scored on Madi’s base hit.But the wheels started coming off in the bottom half.Ally Bland walked the first two batters, got two outs, but then walked another to set the stage. A wild pitch tied it before a ringing double scored two more. Another hit made it 4-1.Bland blanked New Pal the next two innings before the Dragons scored again without a hit in the fourth.Kenna Tweedy reached on an error, moved up on a walk to Lyndsay Goodin and a fly to deep right. Goodin took off to steal second and the pick-off throw was supposed to go to Ally Bland. But the ball ticked off her glove and Tweedy sped home to make it 5-1.“We got off to a quick start, scoring that run in the top of the first,” Hammett said. “Then we couldn’t find the strike zone there at first and let them get runners on base and put us in a bad spot and they got the key hits to bring them home.“Then we couldn’t really mount anything up really well after that. So, give them credit, but we didn’t have our best game out there today. And at this point, you need to. I hope they win out the rest of the way.”In the fifth, Saydie Miller had a leadoff double and scored when the next batter hit a dribbler catcher Jayden Stephens fired to first. The ball and the runner both collided with Ella Sproul at the same time and the ball popped loose.Safe was the call as Miller spun around the bases to score.Meanwhile, Ally Bland was stranded at third in the third and when Sproul reached on an error to start the fourth, the next two were caught looking.It was just one of those nights, but they stuck together to the end. “This is the closest I’ve been, or any of us have been, all four years,” Madi Bland said. “The last couple weeks, we have just been all together bought into this.“And just being able to have 10 other sisters just makes it all that much better. It makes the memories and these losses hurt more.”NEW PALESTINE 7, EDGEWOOD 1Edgewood (27-5) 100 | 000 | 0 – 1 | 4 | 4New Palestine (22-7) 400 | 110 | x – 7 | 5 | 2Ally Bland and Jayden Stephens. Sadey Hughbanks and Lyndsay Goodin. W: Hughbanks (18-5). L: Bland (24-4).This article originally appeared on The Herald-Times: Edgewood softball sees season end in IHSAA 3A regional championship

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — The Vegas Golden Knights beat the Carolina Hurricanes 5-4 in Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final.

The Morton High School girls soccer team continued building its storybook season Tuesday in the IHSA playoffs.The Potters ripped Waterloo, 5-2, in the Class 2A Chatham Glenwood supersectional to earn a trip to the state finals.Morton will play Wheaton St. Francis (12-4) at 2:30 p.m. Friday in the IHSA Class 2A state semifinals at North Central College in Naperville.Morton, 25-1-1, built a 2-0 lead at halftime on goals by sophomore midfielder Madi Greiner and junior forward Claire Ceresa, the latter a slick header on the move off a crossing feed.Waterloo struck back for a tie in the first 12 minutes of the second half.But the Potters locked up their first trip to the state finals in school history with three unanswered goals in the second half.The game-winner came from Greiner with 26:16 left on a left-footed shot on the fly that curved across the pitch and banked in off the right post.The Potters tacked on two more goals in the final 12:21, from Izzy Ripka and Ceresa, to put it out of reach.Morton has won 11 in a row and is 22-0-1 over its last 23 outings. The Potters have out-scored opponents 131-4 this season.This article originally appeared on Journal Star: IHSA girls soccer: Morton to play Wheaton St. Francis in state semifinals

Tracy McGrady knows a thing or two about greatness. He competed against and earned the respect of some of the best players in history during his playing career. The NBA legend had nothing but good words to say about Victor Wembanyama on Tuesday.A clip of McGrady giving the 22-year-old the ultimate praise continues to circulate on X. It has almost 400,000 views. He made it clear that he believes no one matches what Wembanyama brings night in and night out.MORE: Victor Wembanyama performs hilarious good luck gesture before NBA Finals“He’s the face of the league,” McGrady said. “That man is the best player on both ends of the court. No one in our game has the impact that Wemby has on the basketball court, I’m sorry.”McGrady highlighted how the San Antonio Spurs superstar has impacted the game. He added that Wembanyama doesn’t need to win a title or MVPs to prove that he’s the best player in the NBA today.San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) reacts after scoring a three point basket during the first half of game five of the second round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Frost Bank Center. Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn ImagesVictor Wembanyama and the Spurs are ready for the NBA FinalsThe NBA Finals media day was held on Tuesday at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio. Spurs players, including Wembanyama and Stephon Castle, among others, looked relaxed and ready to compete for the title. They fielded questions from reporters and interacted with some of them during the event.Their demeanor said a lot about how much they’ve prepared for the championship series. However, the big test for the team’s young core will begin on Wednesday. Playing at home will help calm their nerves, as it’s time to prove that the bright lights of the NBA Finals won’t be too much for them to handle. Tip-off is set for 8:30 p.m. ET.

Credit: TNT Sports; Served MediaThis week, after world tennis No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka took care of business in a high-profile match against Naomi Osaka, former tennis player turned broadcaster Fabrice Santoro had a strange request.During his on-court interview with Sabalenka after the match, Santoro referenced the Belarusian star’s viral dances in the warmup zone. Santoro then queued music and suggested Sabalenka bust a move on the clay, insisting “it is your choice” while the crowd cheered her on.“Only if everyone is dancing,” Sabalenka said as she twirled and moon-walked for the fans at the French Open.The interaction clearly went over great in the stadium and went viral online, but drew the ire of longtime American tennis star turned commentator Andy Roddick.In an episode of his podcast Served recapping Monday’s action at Roland Garros, Roddick took issue with Santoro’s request.“I always got along with Fabrice Santoro,” Roddick said. “I like Fabrice Santoro. And, like, saying, ‘Will you dance for us?’ It’s such a weird thing to ask. I don’t like it. Then when she does it a little it and it’s kind of over, and then being like, ‘Moonwalk.’ I’m like, ‘f*ck.’“I don’t know, maybe people loved it. I might be in the minority. I just get like…” Roddick added as he tensed his shoulders.“If Sabalenka’s like, ‘No thank you,’ then everyone’s like,’ What you can’t play along? That’s no fun.’ It’s a lose-lose situation.”Cohost Mike Hayden added that while he understands that post-match often are used to bring personality out of the stars, he believes it was unprofessional to ask Aryna Sabalenka to perform a dance in that moment.“I just think you have limited time with the greats, and this is the content you ask for?” Hayden asked. “I prefer something with a little more depth.”Andy Roddick is set to make his debut as a television commentator next month on ESPN’s Wimbledon coverage, yet he isn’t holding back when he has something to say about a fellow broadcaster’s misstep.The post Andy Roddick takes issue with Fabrice Santoro asking Aryna Sabalenka to dance during French Open interview: ‘Lose-lose situation’ appeared first on Awful Announcing.

Mr. Trump said that the candidate, Abelardo De La Espriella, was important for the U.S.-Colombia relationship and called his left-wing rival a “Radical Left Marxist.”

The race might not be called on election night, but these counties could provide signals for what lies ahead.

North Newton's run to a softball state championship last season was propelled by a dominant pitcher.Sydney Rainford is no longer playing for the Spartans, but an outstanding pitching performance again has North Newton playing in the Class 1A North semi-state.Maria Jones allowed just two hits over seven innings, striking out seven in North Newton's 4-1 win over Kouts in a regional championship game Tuesday, June 2.The Spartans (17-8) allowed a run in the first, but recovered with a four-run fifth inning. Caylee Oxley delivered a two-run triple and Riley Higgins a two-run double among her two hits. Tatum Cahall also went 2-for-3 with a triple. North Newton plays Class 1A No. 8 South Central (20-8) at 1 p.m. this Saturday, June 6 at Frontier in a semi-state semifinal. The winner will face either No. 10 Riverton Parke or Southwood at 7 p.m. that night to advance to the Class 1A state championship game.Class 1A regional at Clinton PrairieClinton Prairie bounced back from a 2-0 deficit after the top of the first inning with three runs in the bottom half. The Gophers were hindered by two costly errors, base running blunders and by leaving too many runners stranded from there, though, in a 12-5 loss to Riverton Parke.More: Colton Watts brings energy from bullpen to power Harrison baseballClinton Prairie's Kaydence Kesler reached third base in the second, fourth and sixth innings but never crossed home plate, including after a leadoff triple in the fourth. Missed opportunities left the door open for the Panthers to deliver the big blow, which came on Aubri Morman's sixth-inning grand slam. Keera Grizzle went 3-for-4 with two runs, driving in another, for the Gophers. Sadie Weliver, Maddy Wessell, Alexis Perez and Zelda Wampler also drove in runs. Class 2A regional at MonroviaA big day for Kenzie Clark led Southmont to its second regional title and first since the Mounties finished as Class 2A state runner-up in 2014.Clark was 3-for-5 with three runs batted in during 10th-ranked Southmont's 7-4 win over Monrovia.Kaylee Turner added two hits for the Mounties (19-5), who travel all the way to Forest Park on Saturday to play No. 3 Tecumseh (26-4), the defending state champion. The winner will play either Eastern Hancock or Salem that night in the title contest.Sam King covers sports for the Journal & Courier. Email him at sking@jconline.com and follow him on X and Instagram @samueltking.This article originally appeared on Lafayette Journal & Courier: North Newton returns to softball semi-state after regional title win

Jun 2, 2026; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Toronto Blue Jays center fielder Daulton Varsho (5) makes a running catch on a ball hit by Atlanta Braves center fielder Michael Harris II (23) (not pictured) during the eighth inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images | Dale Zanine-Imagn Images Blue Jays 3 Braves 4That wasn’t Kevin Gausman’s best game. 6 innings, 5 hits, 4 earned, 2 walks, 8 strikeouts and a home run. Of course, when you get 18 outs and 8 of them are strikeouts, it seems like it should be a good game. But, he gave up 2 in the first (a walk, a double and a sac fly), 1 in the third (double and a single) and 1 in the sixth (a Matt Olson home run). Our bullpen put up two scoreless innings. On offense, we had 9 hits, with a Kazuma Okamoto two-run home run and a Vladimir Guerrero double. You would think we could have scored more than 3 runs. We got two hits each from Nathan Lukes, Ernie Clement, Yohendrick Piñango and Okamoto. But then there were 0 fors from George Springer, Daulton Varsho, Andrés Giménez and Brandon Valenzuela. Being 0 for 6 with RISP is a recipe for a loss. Jays of the Day: Okamoto (0.31 WPA), and Lukes (0.12).The Other Award: Giménez (-0.23). Gausman (-0.19), Jesús Sánchez (-0.14, all for a ninth inning out to end the game), Springer (-0.12), Piñango (-0.12), and Valenzuela (-0.10).Tomorrow we have Patrick Corbin (2-1, 3.65) going against Grant Holmes (3-2, 3.95). I did have a nice evening, with three beers and nice conversation. All it needed was a win.

Vegas Golden Knights forward Tomas Hertl scored the game-winning goal against the Carolina Hurricanes with 3:24 remaining in Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final on Tuesday in Raleigh, N.C. File Photo by Archie Carpenter/UPIJune 2 (UPI) -- Lenova Center quivered with intensity as fans watched the visiting Vegas Golden Knights climb back from a 2-0 deficit to stun the Carolina Hurricanes in a frantic 2026 Stanley Cup Final opener Tuesday in Raleigh, N.C.Czech forward Tomas Hertl scored what proved to be the game-winner with 3:24 remaining in the 5-4 triumph. Brayden McNabb assisted three Golden Knights goals. Fellow Golden Knights defenseman Shea Theodore logged a goal and two assists."We didn't have the greatest start, but that's kinda been our story all season," Hertl said on the ABC broadcast. "We never give up. It doesn't matter if we are up or down. We just keeping playing."Tuesday marked the first time in history that a Stanley Cup Final game featured goals within the first 30 seconds in each of the first two periods. The Hurricanes outshot the Golden Knights 27-23, but were outhit 35-26.The Golden Knights extended a seven-game winning streak, while handing the Hurricanes just their second loss this postseason.Hurricanes fans roared early on, as Carolina defenders protected home ice. Forward Nikolaj Ehlers gave them confidence when he scored off the game's first shot, just 25 seconds into Game 1. He found the net a second time with 7:52 remaining in the frame, sliding a shot between the legs of Golden Knights goalie Carter Hart.But the Golden Knights made adjustments, triggering a surge of three consecutive goals and taking control of the contest. Theodore started the outburst 88 seconds after the Hurricanes' second goal. Jack Eichel fed fellow forward Ivan Barbashev to tie the game 30 seconds into the second period.The surge continued when forward William Karlsson beat Hurricanes goalie Frederik Anderson for another score about four minutes later, giving the Golden Knights their first lead.Hurricanes captain Jordan Staal brought the arena back to life when he lit the lamp for a game-tying score with 7:18 to go in the bridge frame.The Golden Knights took the lead back when forward Brett Howden beat Anderson for yet another score 82 seconds into the third period. But the Hurricanes pushed back about 10 minutes later when defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere tied the score for a third time.Hertl proceeded to whip his wrist shot past Anderson for the go-ahead score about five minutes later. The Golden Knights defense stood tall over the final minutes, denying several close chances to secure the road victory.Hart totaled 23 saves in the win. Howden logged a goal and an assist. Hurricanes defenseman Jalen Chatfield registered two assists in the loss.The Hurricanes (0-1) will host the Golden Knights (1-0) in Game 2 of the best-of-seven game series at 8 p.m. EDT Thursday in Raleigh. Game 3 will be Saturday in Las Vegas.

ST. LOUIS (AP) — Joc Pederson hit a tiebreaking single in the ninth inning and the Texas Rangers beat the St. Louis Cardinals 7-4 on Tuesday night for their season-best fifth straight victory.Pederson went 3 for 4 with two doubles and two RBIs. Josh Jung also drove in two runs and Kyle Higashioka had three hits for Texas. Evan Carter drew a leadoff walk in the ninth, moved to second on a wild pitch by Riley O’Brien (3-3) and third when Higashioka singled. Pederson and Jung followed with RBI singles before Pederson scored on Brandon Nimmo’s sacrifice fly to make it 7-4.The Cardinals are 2-9 in the regular season against Texas in St. Louis. Cal Quantrill (3-0) entered with a runner on second and two outs in the eighth and needed just one pitch to retire Iván Herrera. Jakob Junis pitched a scoreless ninth for his fourth save. JJ Wetherholt singled for the Cardinals in the seventh and scored on a double by Alec Burleson. Two pitches later, Jordan Walker’s single drove in Herrera to make it 4-all before Rangers starter Nathan Eovaldi was relieved by Jalen Beeks. Eovaldi got his first no-decision in 12 starts this year. It was the longest such streak by a Texas starter to begin a season since 2015. Jimmy Crooks hit an RBI single in the second that snapped a string of 28 1/3 consecutive scoreless innings by Rangers starters, the third-longest streak in franchise history. Nolan Gorman added a solo homer in the fourth for St. Louis. Carter scored when Nicky Lopez grounded into a forceout, and Pederson's double two pitches later drove in Lopez to make it 2-all in the fifth. Higashioka scored on Pederson's sacrifice fly in the seventh. Up next Rangers LHP Mackenzie Gore (4-4, 3.96 ERA) starts Wednesday opposite RHP Andre Gallante (5-4, 4.19) in the series finale. ___AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/MLB

Mar 24, 2026; Mesa, Arizona, USA; Chicago Cubs first baseman Josiah Hartshorn against the New York Yankees during spring training at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Iowa Cubs RHP Yacksel Rios was released.Shortstop Alex Madera was demoted from Double-A Knoxville to Single-A South Bend. Right-hander Jhon Rosario was promoted from rookie ball ACL Cubs to Low-A Myrtle Beach.The Dominican Summer League started on Monday. As always, I don’t report on the comings and goings of the DSL because I can’t think of much that’s more worthless to player evaluation than DSL stats. Or at least the daily comings and goings of a bunch of 17-year-olds. But I did want you to know that the DSL is underway.Iowa CubsThe Iowa Cubs laid an egg against the Toledo Mud Hens (Tigers), 16-1.Starter Ty Blach got hammered for ten runs, nine earned, on ten hits over 4+ innings. Three of those hits were home runs including a grand slam in the fifth to the final batter Blach faced. Blach walked one and did not strike anyone out.The I-Cubs bats were stymied by rehabbing Justin Verlander, who went five scoreless innings, giving up just four hits. It was the first Triple-A win for Verlander in his career. Iowa only had six hits total.Three of those six hits came off the bat of second baseman James Triantos, who was 3 for 4 with a double and the only Iowa run scored.Shortstop Scott Kingery was 2 for 2 and was hit by a pitch.Matt Shaw played six innings in center field in a rehab assignment. He was o for 3.Triantos’ double off of Verlander.Triantos finds a gap! pic.twitter.com/gJ61dgl4oM— Iowa Cubs (@IowaCubs) June 3, 2026Knoxville SmokiesThe Knoxville Smokies were feudalized by the Birmingham Barons (White Sox), 7-6.The Smokies went with an opener and Frankie Scalzo Jr. pitched the first inning without allowing a run. Scalzo did give up one hit and one walk. He struck out one.Yenrri Rojas pitched the next three innings and took the loss. Rojas allowed seven runs on six hits. He walked two and struck out three.The Smokies then got three scoreless. innings of relief from Tyler Santana and two from Marino Santy.Right fielder Alex Ramírez went 2 for 4 with a stolen base. He scored one run and drove in one.DH Owen Ayers was 1 for 3 with two walks. He scored once.A nice outfield assist from Ramírez.This is what happens when you skip sliding day in little league 😳Alex Ramirez sends Sprinkle packing… pic.twitter.com/JVkoyeN8YN— Knoxville Smokies (@smokiesbaseball) June 3, 2026South Bend CubsThe South Bend Cubs arrested the Quad Cities River Bandits (Royals), 8-4.Starter Alfredo Romero put South Bend in a hole by giving up four runs on two hits and five walks over three innings. Romero struck out one.Jackson Brockett pitched the next four innings, didn’t allow a run, and got the win. Brockett surrendered just two hits and one walk. He struck out two.Kenyi Perez got a two-inning save. He faced seven batters. He walked one of them. He struck out the other six. That’s pretty good, right?Center fielder Josiah Hartshorn hit his third home run in the Midwest League in the first inning with the bases empty. It was Hartshorn’s eighth overall home run. He finished the night going 3 for 5 with a double and the home run. His single in the ninth drove in two, so he had three total RBI. Hartshorn scored twice.First baseman Drew Bowser was 2 for 4 with a two-run double in the fourth. He scored once.Third baseman Matt Halbach was 2 for 5 with a double and one runs scored.Right fielder Miguel Olivo was 2 for 4. He drove in a run with a single in the ninth and scored on Hartshorn’s single. I’m pretty sure Hartshorn’s home run bounced int0 the the Mississippi.Ideal start! Josiah Hartshorn hammers a @hoosierlottery home run!#SBCubspic.twitter.com/CP3skUCBIV— South Bend Cubs (@SBCubs) June 2, 2026RBI doubles for Miguel Useche and Bowser. Useche was 1 for 4.Good guys go back in front!#SBCubspic.twitter.com/rxB6sKOwuM— South Bend Cubs (@SBCubs) June 3, 2026Myrtle Beach PelicansThe Myrtle Beach Pelicans were bitten by the Charleston RiverDogs (Rays), 4-3 in ten innings. Starter Edwardo Melendez gave up two runs on six hits over 3.2 innings. Melendez walked three and struck out two.Daniel Avitia threw the next 3.2 innings and didn’t allow a run. He surrendered one hit and walked four. He struck out two.Aiden Moffett went the rest of the way, gave up two runs in the bottom of the tenth and got the loss. Moffett allowed two runs, one earned, on one hit over 1.2 innings. He struggled with control as Moffett walked two (including walking in the winning run) and threw three wild pitches. Second baseman Alexis Hernandez was 2 for 4 with a walk and two steals. He scored one run.Edward Vargas drove in the automatic runner in the tenth with a single. He was 1 for 4.Extra innings RBI for Vargas pic.twitter.com/QYAScFQtvk— Myrtle Beach Pelicans (@Pelicanbaseball) June 3, 2026ACL CubsLosing to the Guardians, 9-6 in the eighth.

Was Malik Nabers arrested? Giants WR briefly involved in apparent case of mistaken identity originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.Giants fans were dealt a fright on Tuesday night when video emerged on social media appearing to show star wide receiver Malik Nabers speaking with police after being pulled over in New Jersey.Some believed the images added more drama to what has been a hectic few weeks for Big Blue. Between Jaxson Dart's recent dalliance with Donald Trump and Odell Beckham Jr.'s signing, the Giants have taken hold of newspaper headlines in recent days.Some suggested that Nabers' potential run-in with police could have added to the fireworks. In reality, Nabers was the victim of a case of mistaken identity.Here's what you need to know.MORE: Full 2026 NFL schedule featuring dates, times and networks for every gameWas Malik Nabers arrested?Video emerged on social media Tuesday night appearing to show Nabers speaking with police after being stopped in Paramus, New Jersey.Malik Nabers? 😔 pic.twitter.com/kEDJAuZirU— JB (@jbrens20) June 3, 2026However, Nabers was not arrested. NFL Network's Mike Garafolo reported that the Giants wideout was stopped by police after a report of road rage by someone driving a similar vehicle to his.ESPN's Jordan Raanan confirmed Garafolo's report, adding that the individual accused of road rage was reported to have brandished a gun.Paramus police reportedly searched Nabers' car and spoke to the New York pass-catcher. After a brief interaction, Nabers was sent on his way.MORE: What are the best QB matchups on the 2026 NFL schedule?Why was Malik Nabers pulled over by police?Nabers was stopped and questioned by police after a person driving a similar vehicle to Nabers' Tesla was reported to have brandished a gun.Nabers' vehicle was subsequently searched. Following the interaction, Nabers was allowed to return home.MORE:Why Russell Wilson took TV job over return to NFL in 2026

A lightweight title unification bout headlines the UFC Freedom 250 fight card at the White House on June 14. Champion Ilia Topuria faces interim titleholder Justin Gaethje in the historic event's featured fight.Topuria will make the walk to the octagon on the South Lawn undefeated and expects to remain that way. After watching Gaethje's last fight against Paddy Pimblett, he's certain that he'll be successful in his first title defense."Listen, if you compare my skills to his skills, I just feel that I'm way better than him," Topuria told UFC on Paramount+. "I knew that at some time I would have to defend my belt against him since he became the interim world champion, but I don't know. I see almost zero possibilities for him, but that's my perception.""Every fighter is different. They bring different styles inside the octagon. I've never faced anyone like Justin. He's a legendary fighter. I like him as a fan and I always love to watch all of his fights because they're all very entertaining," Topuria said. "Yeah. But when you talk about like me fighting him, yeah. As I told you before, I don't see any possibility for him."Topuria is prepared to go five rounds with Gaethje but doesn't think the fight will get out of the first frame. "I don't think so," Topuria said when asked if he thinks the fight will go into the later rounds."I'm prepared. I prepared and I have the stamina to go not for five rounds, but for five days I can be in there. I know how it feels when you're tired, when you can't do more and you never give up. So, I'm ready. But I have the complete faith that I'm going to finish in him the first round. I just want to make it look beautiful," said the champion.

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (10) engages in quarterback drills during Chargers organized team activities at the Bolt on Tuesday, June 2nd in El Segundo, CA.El SEGUNDO, Calif. -- When Mike McDaniel was hired by Jim Harbaugh as the Chargers' offensive coordinator, one of the first thoughts many had was how beneficial the move would be for quarterback Justin Herbert.Within the first few minutes of McDaniel's introductory press conference, he mentioned that he had “got a quarterback who I’ve always admired.”This hire was about Herbert and helping him get over a hump that has seen him go 0-3 in the NFL playoffs.At the end of his 20-minute press conference following the Chargers' 16-3 playoff loss to New England, Herbert brought up McDaniel almost immediately."I think you're always doing your best to win those games," Herbert said. "I think that's just something Mike and I talked about being your best in those elimination games. It's a good motivating tool, definitely something you can look back on and push yourself throughout the offseason.”McDaniel is the fifth offensive coordinator Herbert has had entering his seventh NFL season, but he is also the most unique.He brings experience Herbert has yet to see because McDaniel is the first offensive coordinator from the Kyle Shanahan coaching tree that he has worked with. While Shane Day, the Chargers' quarterbacks coach, comes from the same tree, this is the first time Herbert has had a play-caller from the system."I could tell we were going to get along really quickly really well," Herbert said.McDaniel made an immediate impression when he put together roughly 100 clips of what he wanted the offense to look like and included Chargers footage to show where improvements could be made.Herbert was taken aback by the presentation."I just think how well put together it was, it made sense," Herbert said. "It was really cool and an offense I haven't really seen before. I was really excited to play for him and really excited once I saw that to really understand the offense and get into it. It's exciting to watch and really made me want to get back into football."Los Angeles Chargers offensive coordinator Mike McDaniels instructing during Chargers organized team activities on May 8th, 2026 in El Segundo, CA.Jessica Cryderman - The Sporting TribuneLos Angeles Chargers offensive coordinator Mike McDaniels instructing during Chargers organized team activities on May 8th, 2026 in El Segundo, CA.McDaniel told the media during a recent press conference that he had watched every single one of Herbert's NFL throws and taken notes on them.That was on top of the 100 clips he compiled. It was such an extensive deep dive that even Herbert struggled to remember some of the throws."He'd bring up throws I didn't quite remember or I remembered differently," Herbert said. "It means a lot if we're going to work together. He bought in and I want to buy in just as much as he did."On Tuesday, Herbert did not throw a single pass. Instead, he focused on footwork, something McDaniel previously said would be a point of emphasis."It was an opportunity to rest today and work on my footwork. Something that we talked about yesterday and probably maybe once a week, something just to do," Herbert said.He worked with a green medicine ball filled with water, simulating snaps and throwing motions while McDaniel closely monitored his footwork. After each rep, McDaniel would walk over and discuss the sequence with him.It is rare for Herbert not to throw during practice, but even he admitted that after seven years in the NFL, he has learned to trust the process."I think it's just being smart about my arm,” Herbert said. “Understanding that it's June and there's a lot of time to train and to work. Mike (McDaniel) thought it was helpful for my footwork to be able to pick up my footwork and not have to worry about throwing the ball right now."Through the first two OTA practices, one thing has stood out: the ball is coming out quickly, whether it was Herbert last week or Trey Lance and DJ Uiagalelei on Tuesday afternoon.Last week, Herbert connected with fourth-year receiver Quentin Johnston and rookie Tre Harris on quick-hitting routes that consistently put them a step ahead of defenders.Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (10) responding to the press before Chargers organized team activities at the Bolt on Tuesday, June 2nd in El Segundo, CA.Jessica Cryderman - The Sporting TribuneLos Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (10) responding to the press before Chargers organized team activities at the Bolt on Tuesday, June 2nd in El Segundo, CA.Obviously, it is only June and the players are in shorts and T-shirts, but there is already evidence of what the Chargers want the offense to look like in 2026."I think getting the ball out quick and the emphasis of getting the ball out before the receivers are even looking for it, that's the new part," Herbert said. "In year's past where you rely on your arm strength to put the ball exactly where you need to instead of trusting and throwing it to a spot and letting them go and get it, I think that part is different."The ball was coming out so quickly that McDaniel felt the need to warn his offensive playmakers."The first day, Mike might have given them a heads up that if they didn't turn their heads around fast enough, the ball was going to hit them in the face," Herbert said. "It was on us as a quarterback to push the limits and see how quickly we can get the ball out.”In addition to the revolving door at offensive coordinator, Herbert has also dealt with instability at center. The most consistent option over the last two seasons was Bradley Bozeman, but there were times when the position became a liability.Harbaugh and general manager Joe Hortiz addressed the issue by signing Tyler Biadasz, who was surprisingly released by the Washington Commanders before free agency."It's just getting snaps with him. I think we did a pretty good job with that the first couple of weeks, especially before we even showed up for OTAs," Herbert said. "Just getting that timing down, he's just a pro.”Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (10) hands the ball off to running back Kimani Vidal (28) during Chargers organized team activities at the Bolt on Tuesday, June 2nd in El Segundo, CA.Jessica Cryderman - The Sporting TribuneLos Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (10) hands the ball off to running back Kimani Vidal (28) during Chargers organized team activities at the Bolt on Tuesday, June 2nd in El Segundo, CA.It has often seemed that Herbert develops chemistry quickly with offensive teammates, whether they are tight ends, wide receivers, or linemen.The same has been true with Biadasz."I could tell immediately as soon as he snapped the first ball that there was not going to be any issues," Herbert said. "We got along really quickly. Very smart, has a really good feel for that offensive line room and he's going to be a great leader for that room."One thing that stood out was that not even two minutes into his introductory press conference, McDaniel said what many around the league believe.“I think he hasn't neared the ceiling to what he's capable of,” McDaniel said.His system and offensive philosophy could be what unlocks Herbert not only during the regular season but also in the playoffs. Herbert has long lacked an offensive-minded coach who could simplify things and help him secure his first postseason victory.A lot will happen before the season begins, but the vision McDaniel has laid out is one that Herbert appears fully committed to. That is exactly what the Chargers need if they hope to finally build the type of offense Herbert has yet to experience during his first six NFL seasons."I think he's just got a great feel for the game and I think he understands how defenses are ever changing and it's his goal to be able to take away the pass rush," Herbert said. "If you're getting the ball out quickly, there's really nothing they can do about it."

Jun. 2—The Jeff Trickey quarterback camps are returning to Jamestown for a seventh year.The quarterback camp will be held June 8-9 at Charlotte and Gordon Hansen Stadium. The camp is available for athletes grades 7 through 12 and costs $279 dollars. The quarterback and receivers camp, designed for athletes grades 9 through 12, will be held June 28-30 at Hansen Stadium.Interested parties can register online at jefftrickeyqbcamps.com.

Nine area teams in softball, baseball and soccer entered Tuesday night, June 2, with hopes of reaching the state tournament, but only two survived the regional semifinals. Both Buffalo Gap softball and Riverheads baseball picked up wins in the semifinals and will now not only play for a regional title June 4, but also advance to the state tournament. Waynesboro girls soccer, Stuarts Draft girls soccer, Stuarts Draft softball, Fort Defiance boys soccer, Fort Defiance baseball, Staunton boys soccer and Riverheads softball all saw their seasons comes to an end June 2. In tennis, the Fort Defiance girls won a regional title and will advance to the Class 2 state tournament where it will host Randolph Henry at noon Friday, June 5. In Class 1 girls tennis, Riverheads will host Lancaster at 1 p.m. June 5 and Buffalo Gap will travel to Rappahannock that same day.Local teams will also be competing in their respective state track and field championships June 5 and 6, with Class 1 and 2 schools in Harrisonburg at James Madison University and Class 3 schools in Lynchburg at Liberty University. More: Staunton reviews new 20-year comprehensive plan draftBuffalo Gap tops LurayJunior Elissa Caricofe hit a solo home run to lead off the bottom of the sixth inning, breaking a 2-all tie and helping lead Buffalo Gap to a 5-2 win over Luray in the Region 1B softball semifinals June 2.With the win, Buffalo Gap will now host William Campbell for the regional title June 4. Both teams also advance to the state tournament. William Campbell knocked off Riverheads 2-1 in the other semifinal.Buffalo Gap's Bailey Tribble went 3-for-4 and scored twice in the win while both Faith Showalter and Rachel Showalter had triples in the game. Rachel Showalter's triple came after Caricofe's homer and she eventually came home to score to put the Bison up 4-2. Gap's final run also came in the sixth on a Makenzie Wooddell RBI single to bring home Mckenzie Woods.Tribble got the start and went three innings in the circle before Rachel Showalter pitched the final four innings, giving up no runs and just two hits. The two combined to strike out six batters. More: Staunton opens new Gypsy Hill pool house for 2026 seasonRiverheads baseball winsMason Miller scored the go-ahead run in the bottom of the fifth inning to help Riverheads rally for a 3-2 win over Smith Mountain Lake Christian Academy in the Region 1B baseball semifinals Tuesday, June 2. Riverheads, the region's top seed, fell behind 2-0 after two innings of play, but scored single runs in the third, fourth and fifth innings to come from behind to pick up the win. With the scored tied 2-2, Miller was hit by a pitch to reach in the fifth then got to third on Jackson Berkstresser's double to right. Then a one-out fielder's choice by Daniel Craig scored Miller with what turned out to be the winning run. Brody Phillips got the win in relief, pitching five innings and giving up just three hits, no runs and striking out six. Riverheads will host Luray, a 7-0 winner over William Campbell, for the regional crown June 4. Both teams advance to the Class 1 state tournament. Other scores:Region 1B softball: No. 2 William Campbell 2, No. 3 Riverheads 1Region 2B softball: No. 3 Strasburg 5, No. 2 Stuarts Draft 0Region 2B baseball: No. 1 Strasburg 12, No. 5 Fort Defiance 2Region 2B boys soccer: No. 1 Clarke County 6, No. 4 Fort Defiance 0Region 2B girls soccer: No. 1 Clarke County 3, No. 4 Stuarts Draft 0Region 3C boys soccer: No. 7 Liberty Christian Academy 2, No. 3 Staunton 0Region 3C girls soccer: No. 3 Liberty Christian Academy 3, No. 2 Waynesboro 0Patrick Hite is a reporter at The News Leader. Story ideas and tips are always welcome. Connect with Patrick (he/him/his) at phite@newsleader.com and on Instagram @hitepatrick. Subscribe to us at newsleader.com.This article originally appeared on Staunton News Leader: Buffalo Gap softball, Riverheads baseball win regional semifinal games

The former congressman was referred to federal authorities after he bet on his own attendance at the State of the Union address, a person familiar with the matter said.

EDMONTON, CANADA - JUNE 1: Alphonso Davies of Canada walks up field during the international friendly match against Uzbekistan at Commonwealth Stadium on June 1, 2026 in Edmonton, Canada. (Photo by Jeff Vinnick/Getty Images) | Getty Images Bayern hoping for Saudi deal on Davies (Sport Bild’s Christian Falk)Last week, Bayern Munich was linked to Newcastle United outside-back Lewis Hall and Sport Bild journo Christian Falk indicated that he had not heard much about that pursuit. Falk did, however, offer some insight on the left back position and offered up a really odd nugget — Bayern Munich might be “hoping” for a huge offer from Saudi Arabia on Alphonso Davies: To be honest, Lewis Hall’s name is not one I’ve heard yet in connection with Bayern Munich. What I can say is that it’s true Bayern Munich are searching for left-backs. As I’ve mentioned already with Bisseck, however, it’s dependent on the club selling a player – in this case, it would be Hiroki Ito. The Japanese defender has a price tag of €20m [£17.3m]. FC Bayern are still hoping to get a really huge offer from Saudi Arabia for Alphonso Davies. Then they’d have to think about that as well! But if they can’t sell Davies or Ito, they won’t be bringing in another player, which would mean bad news for Lewis Hall, and the same for Joško Gvardiol (who can play at left-back and centre-back). I think Bayern are testing the market to see if they can make something happen, but they have to sell a defender first.In addition to that information, Bayern Munich was also linked to Eintracht Frankfurt left-back and Germany international Nathaniel Brown. Is Bayern Munich really looking to offload Davies? Reports have indicated that the Bavarians are unsure that they can continue to trust Davies because of his injuries, but it does seem like it is way too early to cut him loose, eh?Barca turning attention to Kane? (ESPN)According to this report, Bayern Munich would be open to selling Harry Kane for €80 million and FC Barcelona might be ready to make it happen: Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane is emerging as a viable alternative for Barcelona if a move for Atlético Madrid’s Julián Álvarez falls through, as reported by Sport. A €65 million release clause in the England international’s contract has run out, but Bayern would be open to starting negotiations at €80 million. The 32-year-old would reportedly be interested in a move to Camp Nou and there have been inquiries with his representatives after Robert Lewandowski left as a free agent this summer.Silly season is in full effect.Bayern Munich has shown no signs of wanting to sell Kane, whose contract runs through the end of next season (2026/27), but there has been speculation about the Englishman’s lack of action on signing a contract extension with the Bavarians. If you really want to dive deep into a #TinFoilHatTheory, you could pitch the idea that Kane is pushing off his contract talks with Bayern Munich in hopes of trying to make a move to FC Barcelona, but that would be some deep conspiracy talk. Gvardiol comments on future (Croatia Footy)Manchester City defender Joško Gvardiol was recently asked about his future and indicated there was not much on his mind: 🎙️ Joško Gvardiol on his future:“There are all kinds of stories coming from everywhere. It’s hard to talk about it now. I have everything I need at City. Before the injury I was playing every match, after the World Cup we’ll see what happens.”Because what is dead may never die, Sam Lee of The Athletic is reporting that Bayern Munich still has interest in Gvardiol: Bayern Munich ‘hold some interest’ in Joško Gvardiol [@SamLee, @TheAthleticFC]Bayern Munich missed on Anthony Gordon and has reportedly walked away from table on Kennet Eichhorn. Could the club be consolidating resources to take a big run at Gvardiol — or will he also be determined to cost too much?ICYMI: Konaté to Real per report (Transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano)Bayern Munich was briefly linked to Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konaté, but — as expected — the former RB Leipzig player is likely headed to Real Madrid: 🚨💣 BREAKING: Real Madrid have verbal agreement in place with Ibrahima Konaté!Four year deal to be signed, depending on if/when Florentino Pérez is re-elected.Here we go, expected right after. 🔜Konaté put Saudi bids on hold for Real Madrid, as @marcosbenito9 reported. pic.twitter.com/MjWDhxjHVc— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 2, 2026Baumann’s astounding PK save number (OptaFranz) Oliver Baumann turned 36 on Tuesday and OptaFranz pulled out this terrific penalty kick save stat to celebrate: 16 – Geburtstagskind Oliver Baumann hielt in der Bundesliga 16 Elfmeter (von 75) – die meisten aller aktiven Torhüter und die viertmeisten in der Bundesliga-Historie. Rückhalt. @tsghoffenheimpic.twitter.com/xrLc25iCB2— OptaFranz (@OptaFranz) June 2, 202616 – Birthday boy Oliver Baumann saved 16 penalties (out of 75) in the Bundesliga – the most of all active goalkeepers and the fourth most in Bundesliga history. Backbone. @tsghoffenheimLaimer getting closer to extension (Sport Bild’s Christian Falk)Konrad Laimer and Bayern Munich could be headed to a contract extension: ✅ It is TRUE: Konrad Laimer’s talks with Bayern are moving in a positive direction. I heard there’s been another meeting. Laimer wants to stay, and you can feel that Bayern want to give him a new contract. I think it’ll work. I don’t know if it’ll happen before the World Cup. There was a very funny scene when the Austrian was interviewed after the cup final, and another player was screaming into the interview, jokingly demanding why Laimer wanted so much money for his new contract! Konrad Laimer was laughing and joked that they should play the World Cup first and then, if Austria wins, perhaps he’d be more expensive! They’re making jokes, which is always a sign that the feeling is good between player and club, and it could happen.Baumgartner out for World Cup (RB Leipzig)Man, this is an incredibly tough blow for Austria — Christoph Baumgartner is out for the World Cup: World Cup exit for Christoph #Baumgartner 🥺The Austrian attacking player suffered a muscle injury in his right thigh yesterday evening while warming up ahead of the test international match against #Tunisia. Today’s MRI examination has shown that participation in the World Cup is unfortunately not possible.Get well soon, Baumi! ❤️‍🩹If you are looking for more Bayern Munich and German national team coverage, check out the latest episodes of Bavarian Podcast Works, which you can get on Acast, Spotify, Apple, or any leading podcast distributor… Join the conversation!Sign up for a user account and get:Comment on articles, community postsRec comments, community postsNew, improved notifications system!Fewer adsCreate community posts

Yankees' Jazz Chisholm gets roasted by Guardians' Hall of Fame announcer originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.Jazz Chisholm Jr. went on the Jimmy Fallon Show and predicted the New York Yankees will win the World Series.That set Chisholm up to get roasted during the Yankees' series opener with the Cleveland Guardians on Tuesday.The savage comment came from Guardians radio announcer Tom Hamilton, who was recognized with the Ford C. Frick Award from the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2025.Hamilton was telling the story of Chisholm getting the late show opportunity, and he said, "Pretty amazing he got on the Jimmy Fallon Show batting .239."“Pretty amazing he got on the Jimmy Fallon Show batting .239.”Guardians radio broadcaster Tom Hamilton takes a shot at Jazz Chisholm Jr. pic.twitter.com/xXi5gAZSJx— Talkin' Yanks (@TalkinYanks) June 3, 2026MORE: Outfielder retires from baseball to go play college footballDefinitely not a lot of respect being shown right there toward Chisholm.The reality is that modern baseball is so far away from being about batting average. Hitting is so hard. Pitching is so good. And hitters are focused on other things anyway.So yeah, Chisholm is hitting .239. This season so far, the leaguewide average batting average is .241.Chisholm has an impressive power-speed combination, and he's started to heat up just a bit lately.Maybe going on the popular show is a bit too attention-grabbing for some, but Chisholm is a quality player, no matter what his batting average might say.More MLB news:Bo Bichette reveals his plans for his opt-out clauseBumpus Jones is trending for an 1892 accomplishmentThe last time a team was this bad at walking, it took 9 balls to earn a walkChase Burns makes Reds history that hasn't been done in 104 yearsGuardians pitcher trying to complete incredible comeback

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - NOVEMBER 08: Daniel Marcos of Peru punches Miles Johns in a bantamweight fight during the UFC Fight Night event at UFC APEX on November 08, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC) Welcome to Midnight Mania!Let’s start the night off by taking a look back over the three biggest stories of Tuesday, June 2, 2026.Merab Dvalishvili admits he cannot take down UFC White House’s Ilia Topuria: ‘It’s impossible’: Topuria vs. Arman/Islam needs to happen, Topuria vs. Arman/Islam needs to happen, Topuria vs. Arman/Islam needs …Ilia Topuria fires back at Justin Gaethje’s dad? ‘Your son already knows who I am … you will too’ | UFC White House: Strangest beef in recent memory?Tito Ortiz reveals near-death boating incident: ‘I hit the water going 55 miles per hour’: Tito Ortiz is both a legend of the sport and staple of Midnight Mania — all the best in recovery, champ!InsomniaI hope Daniel Marcos is making good money and able to fight often in PFL.View this post on Instagram“Since my last fight in November, I did exactly what was asked of me. I finished my opponent, and since December, I have stayed ready to compete again. I spent months training, going through fight camps, and waiting for an opportunity. A negotiation never materialized; a contract renewal never came. I simply kept waiting because I trusted that the moment would eventually arrive. In the end, the decision was made not to continue with me—and to this day, I still lack a clear explanation as to why. I cannot control those decisions, but I can control how I respond to them. I am grateful to every person who has supported me along this journey—especially those who have stood by me through both the victories and the difficult times. My mindset remains unchanged. I continue to train, I continue to grow, and I remain ready to compete. To everyone who follows me and believes in me: this does not end here. I am hungrier than ever, and I am prepared to prove it—anywhere, and against anyone.”View this post on InstagramI can’t stop watching this clip. Chunky Adrien Broner can still kill a man!Adrien Broner teaches DeenTheGreat how to pull-counter like a 4-division world champion 🥊💯 pic.twitter.com/znacHA1tza— BoldClips (@BoldClips) May 31, 2026Rei Tsuruya with an excellent demonstration of dextrous foot-fighting in grappling:Rei Tsuruya with some crafty riding, locking hands around the far shoulder to clamp down on Gurule as he builds his base, then transitioning from back mount to a cross body ride as Gurule turns and backheeling to keep his leg off the mat while beating him pic.twitter.com/9OnTxaDmjI— MixingMartialArts (@RyanAWagMMA) June 1, 2026Dana White has really been in the mood to drop societal hot takes lately … and that’s the extent of my commentary.Dana White: "I don't care how powerful a woman is or what she does. Women want to be taken care of, treated right, and they want to feel safe. That's nature, and it's a man's job to do all that."pic.twitter.com/bZjOVhGGZs— Joe Rogan Podcast News (@joeroganhq) May 30, 2026Derrick Lewis casually walking away, chuckling as the man on the canvas reconsiders his entire life …Derrick Lewis nearly killed a man 💀 pic.twitter.com/NbpcH24kA2— Happy Punch (@HappyPunch) May 30, 2026I’m not sure what to make of Cal Calavitta’s training protocols and their effectiveness vs. drawbacks, but Cub Swanson’s thoughts here are interesting.The Full clip of Cub Swanson being told he wasnt tough enough while training with Coach Cal. 🫣-Jaxxon podcast https://t.co/oOsXrciskSpic.twitter.com/ZJ6iXUkgIF— Turnout (@TurnoutMMA) May 29, 2026Slips, rips, and KO clipsPower punches from the clinch and dirty boxing range:Hawaii stand up!! Lowen Tynanes (13-2) gets the KO in Japan! 💥 #Lemino修斗6#LEMINOSHOOTO6pic.twitter.com/e5gYxSglmG— Half Dead Frank (@Halfdeadfrank69) June 1, 2026I wonder what would break/pop if somebody waited too long to tap to a Scottish Twister.Nasty. Koki Hirasawa with the Scottish Twister/spinal lock. #PANCRASE362pic.twitter.com/Xu8uvUqq67— caposa (@Grabaka_Hitman) May 31, 2026An audible jaw-jacking. You can hear the whiplash! Epic left hook from DeAngelo Evans 💥 pic.twitter.com/FgbqyXRdmV— Ring Magazine (@ringmagazine) May 30, 2026Random LandKool Aid pineapples are an insane trend … I wanna try ‘em. Kool-Aid Pineapples are taking over TikTok as creators soak pineapple spears in Kool-Aid and sugar to turn them neon red, pink, or blueA full jar of spears can contain roughly the same amount of sugar as nine cans of Coke pic.twitter.com/nQBcCA22Pq— Dexerto (@Dexerto) May 30, 2026Get involved with Mania community in The Feed!Midnight Music: Psychedelic rock, 2002Sleep well Maniacs! More martial arts madness is always on the way.

Red Sox Having Worst Season At Fenway Park In Nearly A Century originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The Boston Red Sox have been historically bad at home this year, and those struggles continued in Tuesday night's 4-2 loss to the Baltimore Orioles.After scoring 18 runs in their previous two games combined in Cleveland, the Red Sox fell flat in Tuesday's series opener against the Orioles at Fenway Park. They managed just two runs on five hits, none of which came with runners in scoring position.The loss dropped Boston's record to 25-34 overall, including 9-20 at Fenway Park. Not only is that the worst home record in baseball, but it's also the Red Sox's worst home record to start a season since 1932.The great @TomCaron just announced on NESN that this is the Red Sox’s worst home record to start a season in 94 years. https://t.co/Mw1KI7W8Qh— Gabrielle Starr (@gfstarr1) June 3, 2026Boston's offense has been the main reason for the club's home woes this year. On the road, the Red Sox average 4.7 runs per game and have a plus-19 run differential. At Fenway, however, they're averaging just 3.2 runs per game and have a minus-26 run differential.Simply put, Boston needs to start hitting better at home if it wants to start winning more games there. Fenway is one of the best offensive parks in baseball, so the Red Sox need to start taking advantage of it.More MLB: Craig Breslow Explains Red Sox's Stunning Offensive Turnaround

Sky Sport: Roma to open talks for Greenwood with MarseilleMason Greenwood is Gian Piero Gasperini’s top target to strengthen his attack. The winger has been identified as the ideal candidate to add depth to Donyell Malen’s already strong defense. According to Sky Sport, talks are expected between Roma and Olympique Marseille regarding the Englishman in the coming days. However, first, the Giallorossi must formalize Tony D’Amico as sporting director.As mentioned, Roma will push hard for Greenwood. Negotiations will be needed with OM (the two clubs have a good relationship following the Robinio Vaz deal in January). However, the asking price for the former United player is high. The French Riviera club, in fact, values ​​the 2001-born player at €50 million. In the coming days, when initial discussions are made, the feasibility of the deal will be better understood.

IND vs NZ schedule 2026: Start dates, venues and timings for every T20I, ODI & Test match of India’s tour of New Zealand originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.KEY TAKEAWAYS:First all-format India tour of New Zealand since the 2019/20 season.India's 12-match New Zealand tour is the biggest inbound series ever.Kohli and Rohit could feature in five ODIs ahead of the 2027 World Cup.Start date of the 2026 IND vs NZ T20I, ODI & Test seriesIndia is heading to New Zealand for a full-format tour spanning October to December 2026.With 12 matches scheduled, combining T20Is, ODIs, and Tests, New Zealand Cricket has confirmed this is the largest inbound tour by number of games in their history.It will also be only the third time India have toured New Zealand across all three formats, following previous all-format visits in 2008/09 and 2019/20.The series gets underway on 22 October with the first of five T20 Internationals at Hagley Oval in Christchurch. The T20I leg moves through Wellington, Auckland, and Hamilton before the five-match ODI series picks up on 4 November, with fixtures spread across Eden Park in Auckland, Hnry Stadium in Wellington, Seddon Park in Hamilton, and Bay Oval in Tauranga.The two-Test series rounds off the tour, with the first Test at Cello Basin Reserve in Wellington from 19 to 23 November and the second at Hagley Oval in Christchurch from 27 November to 1 December.The last time these two teams met in T20 International cricket was in the T20 World Cup final earlier this year. Before that, New Zealand had toured India at the start of 2026 for a series of eight white-ball games.The visitors came away with a 2-1 victory in the ODI leg but were beaten heavily in the T20Is, losing 4-1.Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma: Will New Zealand get to see them?Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have retired from both Test and T20 International cricket but continue to play ODIs. This makes the five-match series a potential platform to showcase their form ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup. Neither head coach Gautam Gambhir nor chief selector Ajit Agarkar has given either player a commitment regarding their place in the World Cup setup, despite both putting in remarkable performances during the 2025/26 ODI season.India tour of New Zealand: Full schedule with match timingsIND vs NZ T20I 2026 series full scheduleDateMatchVenueNZTISTThu, Oct 221st T20IHagley Oval, Christchurch8:00 PM1:30 PMSat, Oct 242nd T20IHagley Oval, Christchurch8:00 PM1:30 PMTue, Oct 273rd T20IHnry Stadium, Wellington8:00 PM1:30 PMFri, Oct 304th T20IEden Park, Auckland8:00 PM1:30 PMSun, Nov 015th T20ISeddon Park, Hamilton8:00 PM1:30 PMIND vs NZ ODI 2026 series full scheduleDateMatchVenueNZTISTWed, Nov 041st ODIEden Park, Auckland3:00 PM6:30 AMSat, Nov 072nd ODIHnry Stadium, Wellington3:00 PM6:30 AMTue, Nov 103rd ODISeddon Park, Hamilton3:00 PM6:30 AMFri, Nov 134th ODIBay Oval, Tauranga3:00 PM6:30 AMSun, Nov 155th ODIBay Oval, Tauranga3:00 PM6:30 AMIND vs NZ Test 2026 series full scheduleDatesMatchVenueNZTISTThu, Nov 19 – Mon, Nov 231st TestCello Basin Reserve, Wellington11:00 AM3:30 AMFri, Nov 27 – Tue, Dec 012nd TestHagley Oval, Christchurch11:00 AM3:30 AMTo keep up to date with all the latest cricket news and share your opinion on the biggest topics visit ourFacebook, Instagram and X (Twitter) pages.

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — When there’s a chance a Pro Bowl-caliber player will become available, it’s Eliot Wolf’s job to call that player’s boss and ask.“I call and I get laughed at,” the Patriots’ top personnel man reflected from his office Tuesday. “That’s just a normal part of a process.”So Wolf began calling the Philadelphia Eagles about A.J. Brown in 2024 “just to see,” he told Yahoo Sports. For two years, the response was incredulous.Around the NFL scouting combine this February, Eagles general manager Howie Roseman’s tone changed.Three months later, timed not coincidentally with a league accounting deadline that aided the Eagles’ dead-cap allocation, on Monday the Patriots sent their 2028 first-round pick and a 2027 fifth to the Eagles in exchange for the three-time Pro Bowl receiver Mike Vrabel had helped draft and then coach in Tennessee. Now Vrabel is his head coach again in New England.Brown’s exact fit into Josh McDaniels’ offensive scheme will be a work in progress. But Brown already said on his first day at Patriots HQ that his new coordinator had “given me a whole bunch of ideas,” while Brown’s new coaches in tandem touted their latest pupil’s quick learning and eagerness to understand principles.On Tuesday, the marriage seemed off to a natural start. The same day that Brown took and completed his physical, he joined the Patriots’ OTA practice. Running individual drills, participating in sprints and working into one first-team snap per series, it did not take long for the Patriots to get excited about their latest weapon.So after a tumultuous final year in Philadelphia that involved disagreements with Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts, consider Brown ready to face forward. He addressed growing apart from Hurts, but feeling love toward him, in a Monday night interview with Maria Taylor. By Tuesday in Foxborough, he kept his focus on the Patriots: where his new runner-up MVP quarterback impressed.Play 2026 Soccer Pick 'Em with FOX One and make your picks for the world's biggest soccer tournamentIn a team meeting Tuesday morning, McDaniels was explaining a concept. Suddenly, QB Drake Maye piped in.“He kind of cut Josh off, not in a rude way, but he just kind of took over,” Brown said. “It said so much from a young guy to know what he's talking about No. 1, and to lead and to be the voice of this team. “So when I heard that, I was like, ‘Wow. That was impressive.’ Obviously I heard great things about him, but that part alone tells me a lot about him and how much he loves his job and he studies and everything.”It could tell a lot, also, about Brown’s fit on and off the field in New England.From knee to QB, Patriots believe Brown offers more answers than questionsVrabel confirmed Tuesday that Brown told him upon the Titans’ 2019 drafting of the receiver that Brown was disappointed the Patriots did not select him.Brown thought he’d go in the first round, and the receiver-needy Patriots held the final pick. But New England drafted N’Keal Harry, and not until pick 51 did Tennessee grab Brown.Seven years later, Brown donned the literal No. 1 jersey for the team that as a child had been his emotional No. 1.But why was he available? And why did the Patriots want him?Brown’s production, while dipping last year, is undeniable in his seven pro years. Brown’s 8,029 yards and 56 touchdowns receiving each rank fourth in the league since he was drafted. The only players to surpass him in both metrics in that time: Davante Adams and Tyreek Hill.Yes, Wolf acknowledged, Brown has a degenerative knee condition. But as the player said in his defense, he missed only one regular-season game (plus one playoff game) in three Philly seasons due to a knee injury designation. Brown also missed three games due to a hamstring injury in 2024, per Fox Sports’ record of injury designations, but in all seven years of Brown’s career, he’s played at least 13 games.“It’s a factor, but we examined him,” Wolf said. “He's got a knee that has some wear and tear that we were aware of. Our training staff and medical staff signed off on it.”Noteworthy after the Baltimore Ravens backed out of the infrastructure of a trade deal for Maxx Crosby: Brown underwent and passed his physical Tuesday morning.And off the field, yes Brown was highly vocal in Philadelphia about the standards he expected of teammates and how he thought the pursuit of them should look. But that doesn’t rock Vrabel.“This is a competitive game, highly competitive,” Vrabel, who played 14 years in the NFL, said. “What's most important is that those things don't carry into the locker room, that they get handled, and you see that all the time on the sidelines. We want to have conversations in the meeting room. We want to have conversations at practice. And sometimes those conversations are animated. “But it's all in the sake of trying to get on the same page and get right.”Brown’s work to get on the same page as teammates began Tuesday. Brown joined his new team for early warmups and stretching, though he declined an offer to lead the team in a stretch as he insisted instead he should earn their respect.Vrabel and receivers coach Todd Downing, who was Brown’s offensive coordinator for a season in Tennessee, showed their new receiver the ropes. Veteran receiver Mack Hollins also helped Brown acclimate.The Patriots positioned Brown to catch some of Maye’s deeper passes in individual periods without running the full 30 to 40 yards of the route. And while Brown worked sparingly into team drills for a system he’s yet to learn, Maye did target Brown during an 11-on-11 period featuring third-down calls.Brown lined up outside to Maye’s left, running out then thoroughly losing fifth-round rookie cornerback Karon Prunty on his comeback. “He’s incredibly powerful, that's the first thing that stands out,” Wolf said. “He can get open one-on-one. He can get open versus zone. He's got a great feel. He's got great hands. He's able to adjust to the football. He's super strong. “He's probably not quite as fast as he once was, but he can still run. There were even a couple times today where, and it was just kind of routes on air, where it was kind of cool to see.“Like, ‘All right, he’s still got some juice.’”Adding Brown shows Patriots intend to maximize potential during Maye’s rookie dealPatriots players looked at their leadership’s acquisition of Brown and thought: Our coaches and executives aren’t resting on the laurels of an AFC championship title and Super Bowl berth.“Considering we went to the Super Bowl last year, I think that’s the same expectation this year,” nose tackle Cory Durden said.Another year of Maye’s rookie deal before his extension eligibility opens allows the Patriots to chase aggressively in free agency and the trade market.“That's our No. 1 priority,” Wolf said of Maye’s eventual extension. “Obviously we have other priorities, but that's our No. 1 priority and I think it just gives you some advantages, especially as we were kind of restocking in free agency last year, we spent the most money in the league, and then again this year when we kind of went heavy again. That's not necessarily sustainable, especially when we have guys like [Christian] Gonzalez and Drake coming down the pipe here.“But having that now gives us the flexibility in these, call it the next two years, to be able to do something like this.”The Patriots believe the culture of accountability Vrabel has established in New England increases their chances of maximizing potential. That high standard is something Brown craves — even if Vrabel rubbed Brown the wrong way during his rookie year.“My first impression? Oh, I did not like him,” Brown laughed as he remembered. “I can say that. But what I [grew] into, man, he's a great guy. He's a great guy and he coaches hard, he holds guys accountable. And I'm not saying that lightly. He really does.“Honestly, I believe that he's daring somebody to challenge him.”That accountability was evident already on Tuesday when Vrabel told Brown not to walk away as he was getting on 2025 first-round left tackle Will Campbell (Brown told his coach he’d “been around you a million times” and knew a lesson was imminent.). It was evident in team drills when Vrabel broke up a period at one point when it didn’t reach the standards he expected.Call it a “win now” mindset if you want. Vrabel calls it the job, which is to win it all rather than revert to the Patriots’ 2023 and 2024 records of 4-13.Adding a big-bodied, physical receiver in Brown supports that goal, the Patriots believe. While the 6-foot-1, 226-pound Brown is not the same size as the 6-6, 265-pound tight end that once delighted Patriots fans, McDaniels does see some similarities in the usage between Brown and Rob Gronkowski.“This is a big man,” McDaniels said. “I’m not sure I’ve been around one just like him. Maybe the closest one I’ve seen is Gronk.”The Patriots will largely look to Brown as an outside wide receiver role but plan to test additional positions in training camp once he has a stronger grasp of McDaniels’ system. Brown plans to chase some of Maye’s deep balls — but also work short and intermediate routes, knowing both that they can convert important first downs and can sometimes become big gains with yards after the catch.That’s a Brown phenomenon that Wolf first learned about in 2018, when as assistant general manager of the Cleveland Browns, he attended one of Brown’s final college games: Ole Miss vs. Vanderbilt. Brown caught a pass in the flat then maneuvered the left boundary to leave three defenders in his wake. Before long, he was crossing the field to complete an 84-yard touchdown.Wolf called a Browns colleague to ask: “Are you sure that A.J. Brown can't run?" And while Cleveland had spent their first-round pick that year to pair Odell Beckham Jr. with Jarvis Landry, the now-Patriots executive appreciated his impact ever since.“We had traded our 1 for Odell and if we had just sat there and picked A.J. Brown, the what-ifs are crazy,” Wolf said. “Having the opportunity to kind of right that wrong and get a player that we still think has difference-making capabilities at a position of need for our team…“We have a deep group, but to add a player of his caliber on the front end of that group is something that we obviously put a lot of stock into.”Brown puts stock into his remaining juice, too. But he’ll let his work do the talking.Brown was asked Tuesday how much he has left in the tank entering Year 8.He smiled and walked off the podium: “You’ll see.”

Photo by Mike Christy / Arizona Athletics Arizona men’s golf’s best postseason in decades ended just short of competing for a national championship. The Wildcats fell to UCLA in the NCAA semifinals Tuesday at Omni La Costa Resort in Carlsbad, Calif. after knocking off Vanderbilt earlier in the day in quarterfinals action.Arizona’s run to the semifinals marks the program’s best finish at NCAA Championships since 2004, when it finished third. The UA had never advanced to match play (introduced by the NCAA in 2009) until this year.“We were ready for that against UCLA and our team showed a bunch of fight,” Arizona coach Jim Anderson said. “Of course we are disappointed we didn’t come out on the right side of the match, but I’m so proud of our guys and the year we were able to enjoy together. We are sad to see our seniors go, but there are so many memories that we all made together and that’s what we will remember.”Arizona’s lone point in the semifinal match came from senior Filip Jakubcik, who won his point 3&32. Fellow senior Zach Pollo was tied through 17 holes when UCLA clinched the match. Arizona’s Taishi Moto missed a birdie putt on No. 18 that would have sent his match to extra holes. By not converting and losing the point by a stroke, Arizona faced too big a hill to climb the rest of the afternoon. Quarterfinals recapArizona advanced to the semifinals thanks to some late heroics from Pollo. With the quarterfinals match tied at 2-2, Pollo and Vanderbilt’s Wells Williams battled in the anchor match for the deciding point. The two seniors sparred all morning, with Pollo leading for most of the match. Williams tied the match on the 16th and then took a 1-up lead by holing out on the 17th. Pollo, needing a point on the 18th to the extend the match, took advantage of Williams’ misfortunes – an errand tee shot into the penalty area followed by a bunker misfire. Pollo made par to force extra holes. On the first extra hole – played on No. 1 – both players missed birdie putts and tapped in on par to continue play. The second extra hole was on No. 15, where Pollo nailed an approach shot from the hardpan dirt to land within 10 feet of the hole. Williams’ approach shot landed 30 feet away. Williams missed his birdie putt, leaving the door open for Pollo to win the match. Pollo delivered, giving Arizona its first victory in the match play era. “I couldn’t picture a better person to be in that spot than Zach Pollo,” Anderson said. “He stuck to the game plan, shot by shot, he was committed to each one. On that last hole, he hit an incredible wedge in there and buried the putt. It’s such a thrill because the team gets to celebrate that.”Senior Zach Pollo converts the birdie and sends Arizona to the semifinals! https://t.co/k93bd9Ylxupic.twitter.com/tq6lZqffH8— Arizona Men's Golf (@ArizonaMGolf) June 2, 2026Arizona’s other two points came from Moto (4&3) and TianyiXiong (3&2).Moto, Xiong and WilliamWistrand are all underclassmen, which gives Arizona a solid core to build around if they should all return next season.

The Unlikely Rise of America's Premier Rally Racer[Bore & Stoke Breakout is a series of bite-sized articles from our recent podcasts to give readers a quick look into the gold that is Motorcycle.com's hit podcast in a text format. Enjoy! - Ed.]Long before making motorsports history on the global stage, Ricky Brabec was just a self-described "dirt ball from the desert" trying to scrape together enough gas money to make it to the next local race.Today, Brabec stands as a towering figure in international rally racing-the first American to conquer the grueling Dakar Rally twice. Yet, his path from local Southern California tracks to the top step of the world's most prestigious off-road podium was anything but guaranteed.The $300 Budget EraGrowing up in the high desert of Southern California after a childhood spent racing BMX, Brabec's entry into competitive motorcycling began casually through District 37 desert events. Alongside teammate Max Eddy and a skeleton crew, Brabec spent his early twenties chasing ribbons in the sand, balancing a day job in sheet metal fabrication with an intense desire to compete."It depends if we were going to a Hare & Hound," Brabec recalls of his early privateer days. "It was me and Max Eddy in a little van and my friend Ty and, I don't know, dude, $300 trying to get to the races, pay the entry fees, eat, and grab a hotel room if we had enough money for it."The turning point came in 2014 when Brabec and Eddy captured the overall win at the iconic Baja 1000. That victory caught the attention of rally veteran Quinn Cody, who cold-called the 24-year-old with an entirely new proposition: trading the marked ribbons of American desert racing for the navigation towers of international rally.The Baptism by Fire in Abu DhabiBrabec's introduction to the sport was a steep learning curve. After just two days of navigation training with Cody in the brutal terrain of Barstow, California, Brabec was put on a flight to the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge to ride a full-factory Honda rally machine.The Pace Shock: Coming from the dead-sprint mentality of 100-mile American desert races, Brabec initially rode the massive rally bike at a 110% sprint pace.The Learning Curve: On day one, while trying to match the pace of rally legend Marc Coma, Brabec misjudged a wind-blown obstacle known as a "sand spit," hitting it wide open and violently wadding up the machine.Despite the spectacular crash and an unfamiliarity with rolling roadbooks, Brabec's raw speed shone through, earning him a fourth-place overall finish and the top rookie honors.Securing the HRC Holy GrailFollowing a solid showing at the Ruta 40 in Argentina and a stellar top-10 finish on debut at the 2016 Dakar Rally, American Honda legend Johnny Campbell came calling. Campbell helped refine Brabec's approach to testing, bike setup, and professional communication.By late 2016, Brabec transitioned from a shop-supported privateer to a fully contracted Monster Energy Honda Team factory rider under HRC (Honda Racing Corporation). Over the decade that followed, the Brabec-Honda partnership became one of the most dominant and resilient forces in modern rally sports, proving that a kid from the high desert could indeed take on the world and win.Check out the Bore & Stoke episode with Ricky Brabec here to listen to the full interview.Become a Motorcycle.com insider. Get the latest motorcycle news first by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Mitch Marner shows exactly why Golden Knights wanted him from Maple Leafs with heroic play originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.Yes, Mitch Marner is leading the NHL in playoff points, and he got an assist in Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Finals as the Vegas Golden Knights rallied to beat the Carolina Hurricanes.This story isn't about a Marner assist, though.It's about a blocked shot.Marner was always regarded as a quality all-around player for the Toronto Maple Leafs, and the Golden Knights knew they could get that.Toronto wasn't where Marner wanted to be anymore, and so he found a way to move on via sign-and-trade.The Maple Leafs can only watch from home, waiting to make the No. 1 pick in the draft, as the Golden Knights make a deep playoff run that now includes a 1-0 series lead in the championship series.The victory was in part because Marner put his entire body on the line late in the game.With Carolina shooting from the point, Marner flew in front of the angle, leaped fully off the ice and found a way to block the puck:Who else but MITCH MARNER coming up with the block at the end🔥🔥🔥His great playoff run continues!!!! 👏 pic.twitter.com/QJZs1iVe1a— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) June 3, 2026MORE: Max Domi's surgery had something go 'terribly wrong'It's hard to know if Marner meant to block that exactly the way he did, but it was the outcome that counted here. He didn't let the puck get toward his net.That's the kind of play that wins hockey games. It's the kind of play the Leafs probably wish they were still getting right about now, too.But nope -- Marner wanted out, and in his new home, he's thriving on the biggest stage in hockey.More NHL news:A special, emotional moment for K'Andre MillerHenrik Sedin's son is excelling in a different sportElias Petersson trade plans may be missing a key pointWould the Maple Leafs trade Easton Cowan?Alex Ovechkin's mom is playing a role in his retirement decision

ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Los Angeles Angels right fielder Jo Adell misplayed a flyball into a bizarre home run off his head Tuesday night in a play reminiscent of José Canseco's embarrassing gaffe 33 years ago.Adell reached up to catch TJ Rumfield's deep fly for the Colorado Rockies in the fourth inning, but the ball grazed the outside of his glove before bouncing off his head and over the wall for a solo homer.There was brief confusion on the field when the ball caromed back into the outfield. Rumfield stopped at second base, initially unsure of the ruling, before proceeding around the bases to give Colorado an 8-0 lead.It was similar to an infamous blunder on May 26, 1993, when Canseco, then playing for the Texas Rangers, lost track of a long drive hit by Cleveland's Carlos Martínez. The ball bounced off Canseco's head and over the wall for a home run. ___AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb

MASON − Making its first appearance in the OHSAA state Final Four, Springboro girls lacrosse saw a historic season come to an end after an 18-5 loss to Upper Arlington in the Division I state semifinals at Mason High School Tuesday, June 2. Springboro’s season ends at 16-6 overall. The Panthers were coming off a dramatic 12-11 victory over Kings to win the program’s first regional championship. Springboro then had a perennial Ohio lacrosse power waiting for them in Mason. "They should be proud of the season," Springboro head coach Jamie Ling said. "We knew that they're (Upper Arlington) what everyone is compared to and our first time here, there might've been some jitters. They're a good team and there's a reason they're the best team in the Midwest."More: Which Cincinnati baseball teams move to OHSAA regional finals?More: Indian Hill junior Devlan Daniel named Gatorade Player of the YearUpper Arlington (22-1), a four-time state champion, continues its semifinal success against Greater Cincinnati programs. The Golden Bears knocked out Sycamore in the same round in 2022, 2023 and 2025. They also beat Kings in 2024. "We really play on playing for each other and believing in each other," Upper Arlington head coach Megan Sengelmann said. "It shows in our offense with having seven different goal-scorers per game this season. Our defense, averaging under five goals a game this season. We've really played with that team mentality and it really shined today."Springboro got an early goal from Brogan Miracle and another from Mady Burns off a nice feed by Grace Dresher to cut Upper Arlington's lead to 3-2 over halfway through the first quarter. Upper Arlington's high-powered offense then found its footing, scoring four straight goals to end the opening stanza, including a trio by senior midfielder and Clemson signee Evie Ruma. The Golden Bears added on from there, holding Springboro scoreless over the final 11 minutes of the first half after a goal by Cam Walters. It was fueled by tremendous play in the net by junior goalie Tori Maurer, who thwarted multiple Springboro shot attempts."She's (Maurer) been starting with us since she was a freshman. She's looked at me like, 'this is everything to me,'" Sengelmann said. "She played like it tonight."Upper Arlington's 6-0 run ignited the running clock after Ella Smith knifed through the Springboro defense in the waning seconds of the first half for her second goal of the night.Ruma had a game-high five goals for Upper Arlington while Claire Aimes and Rylan Clark each scored four times. Springboro senior Ashley Filburn, who scored five goals in the regional championship win over Kings, notched her team-high 76th goal of the season in the third period. Senior sendoff Springboro’s seniors were Ari Lietzow, Maeley Rohe, Kinsley Brown, Paige Gutmann, Mady Burns, Ashley Filburn and Lauren Kolb."No one wanted to get over that hump more than them (seniors)," Ling said. "We're gonna miss them."Over the last four years, Springboro went a combined 61-24 with three Greater Western Ohio Conference titles, just one conference loss, two No. 1 seeds in the postseason, four trips to the regional semifinals and this spring's regional championship."Springboro is, from the youth (program) and up, a growing program and there's a lot of pride in the girls program," Ling said. "We've been good. We just haven't been able to make the next step. This year we were able to and hopefully when we're back in this spot next year, we're better prepared."Another DI state championship rematch between Upper Arlington-Olentangy LibertyUpper Arlington advances to the Division I state championship game for the fifth consecutive season, and they'll see a familiar opponent. The Golden Bears will face Ohio Capital Conference-rival Powell Olentangy Liberty in the finals for the fourth consecutive season on Sunday, June 7, at Historic Crew Stadium in Columbus. Olentangy Liberty trailed Hudson, 8-4, midway through the third quarter in the state semifinals Tuesday but rallied to tie it in the final half-minute of regulation before a 9-8 overtime win. Upper Arlington won its last state championship in 2023 with a 14-10 win over Olentangy Liberty. Olentangy Liberty returned the favor the next two seasons, winning 6-5 in 2024 and 9-8 in double overtime in 2025. "It's always great to be at the top of the mountain, but we always say to look around and enjoy it," Sengelmann said. "You just have to lean into this season because we're one of the two best teams in the state. Why not have fun and play our best game?"This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Springboro girls lacrosse falls to Upper Arlington in state semifinals

ATLANTA (AP) — On Lou Gehrig Day, baseball’s reigning iron man came through with the biggest blow for the Atlanta Braves.Matt Olson marked his 844th consecutive game with a tiebreaking homer in the sixth inning, giving the Braves a 4-3 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays.Olson’s towering shot — his 17th homer of the season — got a big assist from a strong breeze blowing toward the right-field corner. The slugging first baseman thought he got under the ball, but it kept drifting and drifting — until it barely cleared the tall brick wall.“I did not” think it was a homer, Olson said. “Luckily, we had some wind blowing out that way.”Appropriately, Olson took a starring role on a day that Major League Baseball marked the 85th anniversary of Gehrig’s untimely death from ALS at age 37 — a disease that is forever linked to the Iron Horse and cut short his then-record streak of 2,130 consecutive games.Olson, who also doubled and came around to score a run that gave Atlanta a 3-2 lead in the third, has played in every game going back to May 2, 2021 — the longest active run in the big leagues.“We’ve talked about the streak,” he said. “It’s not something I’m hanging up on a pedestal. But to be able to show up and play while I’m able to, I want to.”Braves manager Walt Weiss praised Olson’s durability and couldn’t think of higher praise than being compared to Gehrig.“Lou Gehrig was one of my all-time heroes,” Weiss said. “I made all four of my sons do their fifth-grade book report on Lou Gehrig. That was mandatory in our house. What a legacy he left behind. And you’ve got our iron man hitting the game-winning homer on Lou Gehrig Day, so very appropriate.”Olson was acquired in a blockbuster deal with the Athletics ahead of the 2022 season after the Braves couldn’t agree on a new contract with longtime first baseman Freddie Freeman.It was huge shoes to fill, but Olson has been highly productive since joining the Braves. He hit a franchise-record 54 homers in 2023, and is on pace for another big season for the team with baseball’s best record at 41-20.“He’s rock-solid in every way,” Weiss said. “He’s so reliable.”Olson said there’s a simple reason that he prefers playing every day, eschewing even the occasional day off.“I just don’t like sitting,” the 32-year-old said with a smile. “I’ve had days off in the past and, man, it sucks sitting there and watching everybody else play. Sure, you’re tired sometimes. But I just think you have a commitment to your teammates and the fans and yourself and the organization. If you can go, you should go.”His playing streak is the longest in the big leagues since Miguel Tejada had 1,152 consecutive games from 2000-07. Of course, Gehrig’s record was broken by Cal Ripken Jr., who played in 2,632 consecutive games during his Hall of Fame career with the Baltimore Orioles.Like Weiss, Olson appreciates what Gehrig meant to the national pastime and especially how he brought more attention to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a progressive neurological disease that has no known cure.“I know people from my area who’ve been affected by it,” Olson said. “A brutal disease. Every time we get a chance to bring some awareness to it and do something to help people who are really affected by it, we’re all for it.”

After hitting four home runs in Spring Training with the San Diego Padres, outfielder Jase Bowen was a late option to Triple-A El Paso from spring camp. He then settled in to make an impression with the organization that resulted in getting his first major league call-up on Monday.Bowen hit his 13th homer for the Chihuahuas on May 31. He has a 45.5% hard-hit rate and his max exit velocity for one of those hard hits was 112.6 mph. Bowen possesses all five tools, and if he can improve his 26.2% K rate, he could be a long-term solution in left field for the Padres. For now, he will replace Ramón Laureano, who was placed on the injured list with right hip inflammation.Lake Elsinore StormThe Low-A Lake Elsinore Storm went 5-1 for the week in their series against the Inland Empire 66ers and extended their lead in the California League South to two games over the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes. Their overall record stands at 30-21.Catcher Ty Harvey, who just returned after having a hamstring strain earlier in the season, has now been lost until July with a broken hand that was hit by a swing while he was catching. Infielder Luke Cantwell was also injured last week, allowing Kerrington Cross to get more playing time, and he has taken advantage. Cross is hitting .307 with a 1.040 OPS, tops for the Storm. He has eight doubles, two triples, six home runs, and 24 RBI in his 114 at-bats. The 24-year-old should be seeing Fort Wayne soon.Outfielder Ryan Wideman is only 22 but he could also be pushing for a promotion to the TinCaps. Selected in the third round of the 2025 draft, Wideman is an excellent defensive centerfielder and has shown that he can hit too. His .314/.376/.500 line with 16 doubles, five triples, four home runs and 36 RBI. He leads the Storm in RBI by eight. But his 36 stolen bases in 45 attempts tops all of minor league ball. He might not ever develop significant power, but his other tools are very loud.There are many offensive stars on the Storm roster who have stepped forward with the loss of outfielder Kale Fountain for the year. Outfielder Connor Westernburg, infielder Bradley Frye, and outfielder Qrey Lott, all undrafted free agents, will be interesting to follow through the season as they try to show why they should have been drafted.The Storm pitching staff is not as impressive as the offense, but they are doing enough to keep Lake Elsinore in the top spot. Starter Winyer Chourio has a 3.38 ERA in 34.2 innings pitched over eight starts with 56 strikeouts to 19 walks and leads the staff in strikeouts.Reliever Nick Falter has a 2.08 ERA in 34.2 innings pitched in 17 appearances, and he has 36 strikeouts to 11 walks. Lefty Kruz Schoolcraft, the Padres first-round pick in 2025, has had a rocky start to his professional career, battling with his command over the early part of the season. In his last start on May 29, Schoolcraft pitched 3.2 innings, allowing five hits and three runs with nine strikeouts to two walks. He has an overall 8.03 ERA in nine games started and 24.2 innings pitched.Last season, the Padres attempted to make Sean Barnett a two-way player. The experiment did not succeed and he was converted into just a pitcher during the second part of the season. That didn’t go too well either. The organization will now give him a chance to succeed as a reliever with his upper-90s fastball and plus-slider. He struggled in his first few appearances but has allowed just one run over his past 8.1 innings pitched (report per MadFriars.com).Fort Wayne TinCaps (23-28 record, 4th in Midwest League East)The TinCaps played to a 1-5 record this past week with a combination of offensive and pitching issues. Outfielder Jake Cunningham is their best hitter with a .301 average and .988 OPS. He and fellow outfielder Alex McCoy lead the team with 14 home runs each. Cunningham has 24 RBI and McCoy has 32 RBI. That is most of the offense for Fort Wayne, with no other hitters over .226.Lefty Kash Mayfield had a hiccup in his May 29 start and only lasted 0.1 innings while giving up three hits, six earned runs, two walks, and a HBP in 32 pitches before being removed. He still has a 2.83 ERA in 35 innings pitched with 43 strikeouts to 16 walks.Carson Montgomery has eight starts and 36.1 innings pitched with a 1.98 ERA with 33 strikeouts to 18 walks. Struggling with his command but still limiting the damage has been the highlight of his season so far.Sidewinder Clay Edmondson keeps racking up the saves and now has the league best 10 in 21 innings pitched with a 0.43 ERA. San Antonio Missions (20-31 record, last in Texas League South)The Missions played to a 3-3 record against the Corpus Christi Hooks this past week. Outfielder Leandro Cedeno, 27, was released after not playing since May 15 after suffering an injury. Catcher Ethan Salas continues to impress with his consistent play. His defensive skillset is still considered major league-ready per all reports. Offensively, he is showing why the Padres were unwilling to consider trading him in the past.Salas is hitting .311/.359/.503 with 10 doubles, seven home runs and 30 RBI over 44 games and 161 at-bats. He is catching in tandem with Chris Sargent and is the DH on most days when not catching. He also has 10 stolen bases in 12 attempts; a good runner and base stealer for a catcher.His success makes a promotion a good possibility later in the season. Where he is promoted to is the question. With the struggles of Padres catcher Freddy Fermin continuing, it would be tempting to give Salas a look at the major leagues after the All-Star break. Bringing him up sooner is probably not an option, as he missed all of last season and should be allowed to get in a solid amount of repetition before being stressed by major league pitching.Outfielder Tirso Ornelas had a horrible 2025. He was taken off the Padres roster, spent a good portion of the season injured, and couldn’t hit when he wasn’t injured. The Padres gave him an offseason to rework his swing and brought him back this year with the Missions. To his credit, he has performed much better. Ornelas has a .272 average and .783 OPS. He still lacks power with only five home runs but has 13 doubles and 22 RBI.RHP Jhony Brito will be completing his rehab soon and should be ready if the Padres need him. He does have a minor league option remaining. In four starts and 13.1 innings, Brito has a 2.03 ERA. Starter/reliever Eric Yost has 29.1 innings pitched and a 3.07 ERA with 35 strikeouts but also has 19 walks.Both Francis Peña and Andrew Moore have pitched in 14 games. Peña has a 2.21 ERA in 20.1 innings and Moore has a 2.55 ERA in 17.2 innings.LHP Jagger Haynes leads the team with 49 strikeouts but he also has 21 walks and a 4.65 ERA. RHP Victor Lizarraga is struggling with command this season and has the most walks with 25 and a 5.95 ERA as well.El Paso Chihuahuas (25-32 record, 3rd in Pacific Coast League East)The Chihuahuas played to a 2-4 record for the week against the Albuquerque Isotopes. Their best hitter is now with the Padres and Tirso Ornelas might be the most likely replacement.Infielder Pablo Reyes is hitting .331 with a .973 OPS. Outfielder Nick Schnell has 10 home runs and 22 RBI and infielder Mason McCoy continues to hit for slug with seven doubles, two triples, six homers and 36 RBI.Outside of starter Evan Fitterer, the El Paso pitching staff is having problems with the conditions in the Eastern division of the PCL. Fitterer has a 2.81 ERA in 10 games started and 41.2 innings and has 32 strikeouts with 22 walks. JP Sears leads the team with 52 strikeouts but has a 6.93 ERA.Kyle Hart and David Morgan are on the Padres roster, but neither looks to be promoted anytime soon. Both are struggling with command, with Hart carrying a 10.38 ERA and Morgan a 6.97 ERA.That’s the story for the whole of the staff, for the most part. ACL Padres (10-11 record, 3rd in West)The ACL team played four games and split its games 2-2. Infielder Yimy Tovar was promoted to Lake Elsinore. The team continues to host several rehabbing players from other parts of the minor league system.Outfielder Moises Valdez leads the team with a .382 average. Infielder Dawson Willis has a .346 average and 1.164 OPS.RHP Lan-Hong Su has started three games for seven innings pitched and has a 1.29 ERA. Reliever Bernard Jose has pitched in eight games over 12.1 innings with a 0.73 ERA.Dominican Summer League (DSL)The DSL has begun play and the Padres have two teams again this year. The DSL Padres Brown and the DSL Padres Gold. The first games were Monday with both teams in action. Next week, the update will feature some players to watch and the results from the first week of action.

CARLSBAD, Calif. — Nick Clinard quickly shouted out his star player's name. Alan Bratton was quick to follow suit. Those sitting amongst the arena-style bullpen listening to the Auburn and Oklahoma State coaches picking their lineups for the afternoon semifinal round at the NCAA Men's Golf Championship were hoping it would happen. The coaches weren't going to steal the chance for one of the biggest matches in college golf history.World No. 1 Jackson Koivun, the two-time Haskins Award winner and top-ranked collegiate player, was put into the No. 2 match spot for Auburn. Bratton countered with Preston Stout, the second-ranked college player who a day before won the NCAA individual title. Bratton could've picked someone else who he thought was a better matchup, saving his star for later down the lineup. But he knew something bigger was at stake.College golf's two best players were going to face off with a spot to the national championship on the line. In the history of NCAA match play, a match of tis magnitude had happened only once before, when Texas' Jordan Spieth knocked off Alabama's Justin Thomas 3 and 2 in the championship match at Riviera in 2012. The sequel was finally here. Social media was begging for the match when the Tigers and Cowboys advanced into the semifinals. The anticipation added more eyes and made more people tune into the show Tuesday afternoon at Omni La Costa. And it was an absolute show.The duo hit some good shots, great even. There were some poor ones, the product of a sixth competitive round of golf in five days and the stress of college golf's longest day. Koivun went 3 up after 4 holes. By the turn, Stout trailed by only one. In those first nine holes, they tied only two of them.On the back nine, Koivun chipped in for birdie on the 12th hole to double his lead. Stout got it back within one when Koivun three-putted on the 15th. The duo each were near the par-5 18th green in two, with Stout hoping to get up-and-down from the bunker to force extras, while Koivun wanted to do the same from right of the green to end the match.As Koivun was lining up his third shot, his teammate Cayden Pope closed out his match on the 16th green about 200 yards away. That clinched the semifinal for Auburn, sending the top-ranked Tigers back to the NCAA Championship mach, knocking off the defending champs. The star-studded showdown didn't officially have a conclusion, though the scoring will give Koivun the 1-up win. The two players shook hands with the other's coaches before dapping up and sharing a quick word before going their separate ways. The two were teammates on the Walker Cup last fall. They've also played in the Junior Presidents Cup and other college events through the years. Tuesday was more than all of that. It cast a spotlight on college golf for 4 hours, the two best amateurs in the world battling it out with a spot in the national championship match on the line. At the end of the day, fans got a show between college golf's two best players. It was a special moment on the biggest stage in the sport and one that didn't have to happen, but thanks to Clinard and Bratton did. There's a good chance the TV ratings will reflect a big increase thanks to the social media chatter and interest in the showdown. It was a great Tuesday afternoon for the sport.Ultimately, Koivun got the better of Stout, and it's a shame we'll never truly know how the match will finish. Stout likely believed he was getting up-and-down for birdie and going to force Koivun to do the same. Meanwhile, Koivun had confidence he was going to to the same and not give Stout a chance to win the hole. Even without an ending, Jackson Koivun and Preston Stout delivered for college golf.This article originally appeared on Golfweek: Jackson Koivun, Preston Stout deliver showdown at 2026 NCAA Golf

Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs are in the NBA Finals after beating the Oklahoma City Thunder 111-103 in Game 7. It is his first Finals in just three years in the league. Before the series even tips off, he sat down for a media session and answered one question in a way that nobody saw coming.Victor Wembanyama Opens Up on His True MotivationBefore Game 1 of the NBA Finals, a reporter pointed a microphone at Wembanyama and asked a simple question: who do you want to win for?Most players reach for the safe answer. The city. The fans. The teammates. Wembanyama went somewhere else entirely.“My first answer would be myself,” he said. “I think it doesn’t get more complicated than that.” Three words. Zero hesitation.Victor Wembanyama’s Honest Three-Word Answer Stuns the NBA Finals (Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images)For a 22-year-old playing in his first NBA Finals, that kind of clarity is rare. It is not arrogance. It is something quieter and more powerful. It is a player who knows exactly why he competes and does not feel the need to dress it up.After Saturday’s series victory, Wembanyama spoke about what reaching the Finals truly meant. “Winning the Larry O’Brien is a childhood dream,” he said. “Having a tangible chance at winning it, it’s a lifetime chance.”That hunger is real. And now the whole NBA Finals will feel it.The Knicks will need every answer they have when the lights come on Wednesday night.Wembanyama Dominates Game 7 to Claim Conference Finals MVPWembanyama was named the Western Conference Finals MVP after a standout performance in the series against Oklahoma City. He recorded 27 points, seven rebounds, and shot 60 percent from three in the decisive Game 7, reminding everyone watching that this is not just a young player finding his footing. This is a generational talent arriving at full force.Through the playoffs, Wembanyama is averaging 23.2 points on 51 percent shooting, along with 10.8 rebounds and 3.5 blocks per game. Those numbers have left opposing coaches searching for answers that simply do not exist yet.Now the question shifts to New York. The Knicks enter the Finals on an impressive 11-game postseason winning streak and are making their first Finals appearance since 1999. They will not arrive quietly.The 2026 NBA Finals begin Wednesday night on ABC at 8:30 PM ET, with San Antonio hosting the Knicks for Game 1. Game 2 comes Friday before both teams head to Madison Square Garden. The Spurs are chasing a sixth championship. The Knicks waited 27 years.

Javier Mogollón provided the early fireworks for Kannapolis, launching a two-run homer in the first inning | (Javier Mogollón/Instagram) Charlotte Knights 6, Durham Bulls 1The Knights (30-28) spotted Durham a freebie in the early going, then unloaded a five-double assault and let the arms take it from there.Durham pushed across its only run in the third off Hagen Smith, who plunked the leadoff man, served up a double, and then watched old friend Austin Slater cash in with a ground out. That was it for the Bulls. Smith shut it down after that, spinning 4 1/3 innings of one-run, two-hit ball with two walks and a season-high nine punchouts. Some of the sharpest he’s looked all year.Charlotte didn’t bother waiting around. Braden Montgomery led off the fourth with a single, got wiped out trying to swipe second, and Michael Turner fanned. Shrug. Junior Pérez worked a walk, Dustin Harris smoked an RBI double to even things up, Dru Baker banged a ground-rule RBI double, and Caden Connor finished the job with another run-scoring double. In a blink, the Knights flipped a 1-0 deficit into a 3-1 lead.The bats tacked on some insurance late. Two in the eighth: Pérez with a double, Connor with a single. One more in the ninth, courtesy of an Andy Weber double, Mario Camilletti’s fly out, and Montgomery’s sac fly.The bullpen clocked in and got it done. Peyton Pallette, just back from the Guardians, grabbed the win with a clean inning — one walk, one K. Garrett Schoenle spun two scoreless, scattered two hits, punched out three. Ben Peoples locked it up in the ninth with a perfect frame and two strikeouts.Who was the Knights MVP? Braden Montgomery: 2-for-4, RBIMichael Turner: 3-for-5, R, PO, KJunior Perez: 1-for-4, 2 R, BB, 2B, 3 KDustin Harris: 1-for-2, R, 2 RBI, BB, 2B, KDru Baker: 1-for-3, R, RBI, BB, 2B, KCaden Connor: 2-for-4, 2 RBI, 2BAndy Weber: 1-for-4, R, 2B, KHagen Smith: 4 1/3 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 2 BB, 9 KPeyton Pallette: 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, BB, K, WGarrett Schoenle: 2 IP, 2 H, 3 K, HBen Peoples: 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 2 K pollcode.com free pollsWho was the Knights Cold Cat? Mario Camiletti: 0-for-5, KRyan Galanie: 0-for-3, BB, K pollcode.com free pollsBirmingham Barons 7, Knoxville Smokies 6The Barons (20-31) stacked up what looked like a comfy early cushion, then spent the ninth inning clinging for dear life before finally staggering away with the win.Birmingham came out swinging in the second, when Jeral Pérez opened the scoring with a two-run homer (his fourth) to give the Barons a quick 2-0 lead. The offense then blew the game open in the third. Colby Shelton singled to start the inning, and after Anthony DePino and Samuel Zavala drew back-to-back walks, Jacob Burke took one for the team to force in a run. Pérez, not content with just the dinger, ripped a bases-clearing double to right. Suddenly, it was 6-0, Barons in the driver’s seat.The Smokies started to nibble. They worked a run in the third off Connor McCullough on two singles and a balk, nothing fancy. They kept chipping as the innings ticked by. Birmingham got a run back in the fourth after Jordan Sprinkle singled, swiped second, and scored on an Alec Makarewicz RBI knock. 7-1, Barons.At that point, it felt comfortable, but it wasn’t.The Smokies stormed back with a three-run fifth against Luke Bell, then added another in the sixth off Jairo Iriarte to pull within 7-5. Still, Birmingham clung to the lead heading into the ninth.That’s where things got chaotic. Jonathan Clark allowed a leadoff single, then a force play briefly created order before a throwing error extended the inning. After a line out, Clark uncorked back-to-back wild pitches that brought home a run, cutting it to 7-6. A double followed to put the tying run in scoring position, but Clark regrouped and struck out the final batter.Birmingham did all the heavy lifting early, then had to white-knuckle it to the finish.Who was the Barons MVP?Jordan Sprinkle: 3-for-5, R, SB, CSColby Shelton: 2-for-4, R, BB, SBAlec Makarewicz: 2-for-5, RBI, SB, 2 KAnthony DePino: 1-for-3, R, 2 BBJacob Burke: 1-for-4, RBI, SB, 2 KJeral Perez: 3-for-5, R, 5 RBI, 2B, HR, K, ECalvin Harris: 1-for-4, KConnor McCullough: 4 IP, 4 H, 1 R, 1 BB, 5 KJackson Kelley: 2 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 2 BB, H pollcode.com free pollsWho was the Barons Cold Cat? Samuel Zavala: 0-for-4, R, BB, 3 KDrake Logan: 0-for-4, KLuke Bell: 1 IP, 2 H, 3 R, 3 BB, 2 KJairo Iriarte: 1 IP, 0 H, 1 R, 1 BB, K, WJonathan Clark: 1 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 0 BB, K pollcode.com free pollsWinston-Salem Dash 2, Hub City Spartanburgers 1The Dash (31-21) offense? Practically invisible, but somehow they scraped together just enough. For most of the night, it was a pitcher’s duel, and Winston-Salem was just flailing at shadows until Caleb Bonemer finally broke up the monotony with a sixth-inning double. There was a flicker of hope when George Wolkow and Kyle Lodise followed by working walks to load the bases, but, unfortunately, nothing came of it.Mason Adams got the ball for the Dash and did his job: three innings, three hits, no walks, three punchouts. A solid outing for the prospect working his way back from Tommy John.Hub City finally scratched out a run in the eighth — walk, swipe of second, wild throw, and RBI knock off Madison Jeffrey. But the Dash had an answer: Ely Brown coaxed a walk, two quick outs, then Wolkow uncorked a two-run missile, his eighth, to give W-S a 2-1 lead. Pierce George shut the door in the ninth, three up, three down. Two hits all night, but nine walks and Wolkow’s heroics? That’ll do.Who was the Dash MVP?Mason Adams: 3 IP, 3 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 3 KSeth Keener: 1 2/3 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, KTrey Cooper: 1 1/3 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 BB, KGarrett Wright: 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, BB, 3 K, WPierce George: 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 3 K, SCaleb Bonemer: 1-for-4, 2B, 2 KGeorge Wolkow: 1-for-3, R, 2 RBI, BB pollcode.com free pollsWho was the Dash Cold Cat?Madison Jeffrey: 1 IP, 1 H, 1 R, 1 BB, KRyan Burrowes: 0-for-3, BBBoston Smith: 0-for-2, BB, KGrant Magill: 0-for-2, KArxy Hernández: 0-for-3T.J. McCants: 0-for-3, 3 K pollcode.com free pollsHickory Crawdads 6, Kannapolis Cannon Ballers 3The Cannon Ballers (26026) teased with some early fireworks, but when it came time for a clutch knock, the bats fizzled.Kannapolis actually struck first, with Javier Mogollón unloading a two-run shot for a fast 2-0 edge. That lasted about as long as a sneeze. Starter Truman Pauley walked the leadoff man in the bottom half, then grooved a meatball that got launched right back for a matching two-run bomb.The Ballers grabbed the lead back in the third, hustling their way around the bases: Mogollón walked, swiped second, took third on a wild throw, and scored on a sac fly from Stiven Flores. Unfortunately, the good vibes didn’t last. Hickory pounced on a couple of free passes, a wild throw, and a plunked batter to tie things right back up at 3-3.The score remained knotted until the fifth, when the Crawdads broke through against Anthony Patterson III. A double, a walk, and consecutive singles produced two tallies and gave Hickory its first lead of the night at 5-3. The Crawdads tacked on an insurance run against Choyce Diffey in the sixth, and that was curtains.Kannapolis had its chances — plenty of them — but went a limp 1-for-8 with runners in scoring position. Not even a rain delay could cool off the frustration. The Ballers generated traffic but lacked the timely hit, and that’s usually a tough recipe for victory.Who was the Ballers MVP?Matthew Boughton: 1-for-4, R, SB, 3 KJavier Mogollón, 2-for-3, 2 R, 2 RBI, BB, HR, SB, CS, KAlexander Albertus: 2-for-4, KJames Taussig: 1-for-3Carlton Perkins: 1 IP, 2 H, 0 R, BB, 2 K pollcode.com free pollsWho was the Ballers Cold Cat?Abraham Núñez: 0-for-4, BB, 2 KStiven Flores: 0-for-3, RBI, 2 KRylan Galvan: 0-for-4, 4 KEfren Teran: 0-for-3, BB, KDerek Cerda: 0-for-2, 2 BB, OATruman Pauley: 3 1/3 IP, 2 H, 3 R (2 ER), 5 BB, 2 K, E, 2 HBPAnthony Patterson III: 1 2/3 IP, 4 H, 2 R, BB, K, LChoyce Diffey: 2 IP, 3 H, 1 R, 2 BB, 2 K pollcode.com free pollsACL Diamondbacks 5, ACL White Sox 2 (7 innings)The ACL White Sox (7-16) grabbed an early lead but watched it slip away. Nick McLain singled to open the game, Christian Gonzalez tripled him home, and it was a quick 1-0 advantage. That was the high point. Arizona wasted no time roughing up Juan Carela, tying it in the first, then taking the lead with a second-inning bomb off Fabian Ysalla. The Sox tried to come back in the fifth when Eduardo Herrera singled, then scampered home on a pair of wild pitches and an airmail throw. But the D-backs snatched the lead right back in the bottom of the frame with an RBI double, then tacked on two more in the sixth, one gift-wrapped by a pickoff blunder, the other on a sac fly. Five hits, ten strikeouts, and a parade of defensive miscues was just too much to overcome.Who was the ACL Sox MVP? Nick McLain: 1-for-3, RChristian Gonzalez: 1-for-2, RBI, 3BLeandro Alsinois: 1-for-2, PO, KJordan Rich: 1-for-3, SBEduardo Herrera: 1-for-3, R, 2 K pollcode.com free pollsWho was the ACL Sox Cold Cat? D’Angelo Tejada: 0-for-3, 2 KJosé Mendoza: 0-for-3, KAlejandro Cruz: 0-for-2, BB, 2 KJefrank Silva: 0-for-3, KOsniel Castillo: 0-for-2, KJuan Carela: 1 2/3 IP, 1 H, 1 R, 1 BB 3 KFabian Ysalla: 3 1/3 IP, 4 H, 2 R, 2 Bb, 2 K, LCesar Nunez: 1 IP, 2 H, 2 R, 2 BB, E pollcode.com free pollsACL Guardians 7, ACL White Sox 2 (7 innings)The ACL White Sox nursed a slim lead late into the game thanks to a solid 3 2/3 frames from starter Orlando Suarez, then promptly faceplanted in a sixth-inning meltdown. Yordani Soto did his part, blasting his third homer in the fifth, and D’Angelo Tejada coaxed a bases-loaded walk to nudge the Sox ahead, 2-1. Nick McLain managed a pair of knocks, Alan Escobar chipped in with a double and a single, but trouble and five runs appeared in the sixth: two walks, three stolen bags, a bomb, and a comedy of three balks. The Sox worked a couple of leadoff walks in their half of the sixth but left runners gasping. They ended the contest with six hits and a whopping 10 punchouts.Who was the ACL Sox MVP? Nick McLain: 2-for-2, BB D’Angelo Tejada: 1-for-3, RBI, BBYordani Soto: 1-for-2, R, RBI, BB, HR, KAlejandro Cruz: 1-for-3Alan Escobar: 2-for-3, 2B, KOrlando Suarez: 3 2/3 IP, 0 H, 1 R, 6 BB, 3 K, PO, HBPReinder Gomez: 1 1/3 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 BB, K pollcode.com free pollsWho was the ACL Sox Cold Cat? Marcelo Ácala: 0-for-4, 3 KLandon Hodge: 0-for-4, 2 KJose Mendoza: 0-for-2, BB, 2 KFrank Mieses: 0-for-2, R, BB, KReudis Diaz: 2/3 IP, 4 R, 2 H, 2 BB, K, L, BSCesar Familia: 1 1/3 IP, 3 H, 2 R, 0 BB, K pollcode.com free polls

Rashford and Mainoo’s World Cup squad numbers revealed As is often the case with England squad announcements, Thomas Tuchel’s 26-man squad for the upcoming World Cup raised plenty of eyebrows and kickstarted huge chatter online, discussing the players unfortunate to miss out and those who should consider themselves lucky to be on the plane. Manchester United have just two players included in the squad, although many United fans believe that number should have been considerably higher.Luke Shaw and Harry Maguire both enjoyed stellar campaigns at Old Trafford, with Shaw being the only United player to start every game and Maguire elevating his game to another level entirely since Michael Carrickreturned to the dugout. The towering centre-half and his family reacted poorly to his omission, releasing a series of statements and comments on social media that felt a little unbecoming.Star central midfielder Kobbie Mainoo and Marcus Rashford, who spent the season on loan at Barcelona, are the only Red Devils headed to the United States hoping to bring the World Cup home. Now, with their official squad numbers revealed, we have more understanding as to how involved they will each be in that journey.Rashford’s experienceRashford is undoubtedly the more experienced of the pair when it comes to representing England at major tournaments. He first appeared in a major tournament for the Three Lions at the 2016 UEFA European Championships, where he was the youngest player involved. The upcoming World Cup will be the third in which the Mancunian has been involved, and he will surely be hoping to add to his three World Cup goals.Despite an up-and-down season on loan at La Liga champions Barcelona, Rashford has regularly been included in Tuchel’s squads and often finds himself in the starting eleven. It is thought the starting left-winger for England in the upcoming tournament will be a straight shot between Rashford and Barcelona’s new signing Anthony Gordon.Mainoo’s experienceThough Mainoo’s experience at international football is limited compared to his former teammates, the United academy graduate made a huge impact at the 2024 UEFA European Championship, the only previous major tournament squad in which he was included.Despite not starting any of England’s group games, the talented central midfielder forced his way into Gareth Southgate’s starting eleven and played a key role in England’s journey to the final, where they were beaten 2-1 by Spain. Mainoo appeared unlikely to make the squad before Carrick returned to United in January and restored the Mancunian to the starting eleven. Since then, the England international has returned to his best and Tuchel had no choice but to include him in the squad.Mainoo’s shirt numberSky Sports have officially revealed that Mainoo will take after his manager and wear the number 16 shirt in the upcoming World Cup. This perhaps indicates that the wonderkid will once again have to fight his way into England’s starting eleven. However, with the climate set to force Tuchel into a lot of rotations throughout the tournament, Mainoo can still expect to pick up plenty of minutes throughout the summer.The number 16 is also a clear indication that Mainoo’s international career is on an upward trajectory, given that he wore the number 26 squad number in the 2024 UEFA European Championships. Hopefully, by the time the next tournament rolls around, he will have established himself as England’s number eight.Rashford’s shirt numberRashford, on the other hand, retains the number eleven shirt that he wore at the 2021 Euros and the 2022 World Cup. This will surely be a welcome boost to the player, who did not make the squad for the 2024 Euros, providing assurances that he will likely begin the tournament as Tuchel’s first-choice left winger.The pacey winger will be hoping to deliver a series of standout performances and showcase everything he has to offer during the World Cup in order to entice Barcelona into signing him permanently. Surely getting his hands on the World Cup trophy would be enough to do just that.The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - JUNE 02: Masataka Yoshida #7 of the Boston Red Sox sprints for first in the fifth inning against the Baltimore Orioles at Fenway Park on June 02, 2026 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Jaiden Tripi/Getty Images) | Getty Images The latest in a long line of disgraceful factoids surrounding the 2026 Red Sox remained in tact on Tuesday night: Since Chad Tracy took over as interim manager back on April 25th, the Red Sox have not won a single game at Fenway Park in which the opponent scored more than one run. They’re 4-12 overall in Tracy’s 16 home games at the helm, have lost every single series started east of the Appalachians during that time, and continue to find ways to do something so inefficient at the plate it hasn’t been seen since one of the Roosevelt presidencies on a near daily basis.Speaking of which, Tom Caron announced on the NESN postgame show that this is the Red Sox’ worst home record to start a season (9-20) in 94 years. In case you’re wondering, that 1932 Red Sox team lost a franchise worst 111 games, and also fired their manager (Shano Collins) just after he reached double digit wins. Combine all this, and isn’t it rather appropriate that Chad Tracy’s pet project, Mickey Gasper, made the final out of this game? On the surface, Gasper is a feel good story making the most out of his callup, batting .333 and seizing the majority of the starts behind the plate in recent days. Zooming in closer, he’s collected 18 hits in just 60 plate appearances since getting the nod. All of this sounds nice, until you realize exactly zero of those hits have come in his 12 highest leverage plate appearances on the season.There’s a reason for this: Mickey Gasper can’t hit high leverage arms! He’s not good enough, and he shouldn’t be taking the final at bat of a game at Fenway Park for the Red Sox down by two in the ninth inning. This isn’t meant to be a knock on him, because to his credit credit, Gasper’s actually taken some of the better looking at bats on the team in recent weeks against low and medium leverage guys (that is meant to be a knock on everybody else). But if you’re a big market team and your roster is weak enough that Mickey Gasper is getting the lion’s share of the plate appearances when his bat comes up in high leverage moments, something went seriously wrong when constructing the roster. He’s a 30-year-old who has nearly ten times as many minor league at bats (a shade under 2,000) compared to major league ones (less then 200). Despite this, he’s both clearly the hottest hitting catcher of the three underwhelming backstops on the roster, and the right guy to bat in that spot thanks to a hideously undermanned bench. And you know what’s specifically frustrating about this roster construction tonight? This is exactly the type of game the “run prevention Red Sox” should be winning if the formula is going to work. Connelly Early didn’t have it on the mound, but he battled enough to keep the team in the game before the bullpen froze Baltimore’s run total at four. With just a little bit thump at the plate, this is the type of Fenway fray where if you string together even a couple of consecutive good at bats against a mediocre opponent, you get the crowd buzzing, and probably end up kicking the door down in an ugly but satisfying 5-4 win. No dice with this listless lineup! Instead, we got to watch some of the thump that was on the free agent market last winter show up to Fenway in a road uniform and prove that yes, it’s still possible to hit home runs here right handed. Here’s Pete Alonso with some of that sweet, sweet right handed pop the Red Sox so sorely lack launching one Over The Monster: View LinkMeanwhile, Isiah Kiner-Falefa, a right handed bat the Red Sox did sign over the winter, had this to say following the game: “I just feel like on the road we’re a very close-knit team. When we come home, there’s just a lot of people. It’s different. It’s just a different vibe at home. We’ve got to figure out a way to make it small like how it is on the road. I just feel like at home we see a lot of people we don’t know that are around this area.”I’m sure there’s more layers coming from these comments in the coming days because that’s a statement that feels ripe with more details waiting to be released. Three StudsCeddanne Rafaela: 2-4 at the plate, and the only man in the Sox lineup with multiple hits tonight. He continues to blossom by being more selective at the plate.Greg Weissert: Faced five batters, got all of them out, and struck out three. Since he can seemingly only pitch without men starting on base, maybe he should open for Brayan Bello? Tyler Samaniego: Certainly not the sharpest he’s looked, and he got some serious help from the umpires on that call that went to New York and wasn’t overturned, but he sucked up two innings of work and didn’t allow a run. If the Red Sox offense didn’t suffer from narcolepsy, there’s a version of this game where he might have gotten the win. Three DudsMasataka Yoshida: 0-4 with three strikes outs and an OPS down to .683. And this is from a guy you pretty much have to use at DH because he’s a terrible fielder, can’t throw, and has below average speed on the bases. If he’s not going to start hitting, I’m not sure what he’s still doing here. Isiah Kiner-Falefa: Came to the plate three times tonight and made four outs. Willson Contreras: Quiet night for him. 0-3 with a pair of strike outs. Play of the game:It’s Pete Alonso’s two run jack (as seen above). Not just because it shoved the right handed power the Red Sox don’t have in their face, but also because it gave the Orioles the lead and provided what turned out to be the winning run.

Dec 31, 2023; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown (11) runs with the ball during the fourth quarter against the Arizona Cardinals at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY SportsIt’s not often that a team feels a sense of relief when one of their most high-profile players is traded to another team, but it sounds like that’s exactly what some Eagles players were feeling after superstar wide receiver A.J. Brown was traded to the New England Patriots.In the aftermath of the high-profile trade that sent Brown to the Patriots to reunite with head coach Mike Vrabel, who coached him during his time with the Tennessee Titans, a few Eagles players had some strong reactions to the move, including at least one player who expressed relief.‘Thank God It’s Over’While Brown is a star wide receiver who never had fewer than 1,000 receiving yards during his time with the Eagles, he did bring a lot of drama to the team during his final season as he criticized the offense and appeared to want out.Now, that’s all over, bringing a sense of relief to at least one player.“I think this is more of a — it sounds terrible — but like, thank God it’s over. It was a slow pain of just, is he in, is he out?” left tackle Jordan Mailata said via ESPN. “We didn’t really know, and that really wasn’t our focus as a team, our team, especially on offense.”The biggest thing now is that the team can finally move on and prepare for the season without the distraction hanging over their heads.“Yes, we can move on now,” Mailata said. “I think most of us that have been here the last six weeks, we have moved on, just from, we have enough to worry about.”Teammates Wish Him the BestWhile there may be a sense of relief that the situation has finally wrapped up, that doesn’t mean Brown’s teammates are universally glad to see him go, at least from a personal perspective.Several of Brown’s teammates expressed support for Brown as he leaves the team, speaking highly of their former teammate.“That’s my big brother. I wish him nothing but the best,” cornerback Quinyon Mitchell said. “He helped me grow in my game and gain more confidence, so I’m thankful for him and I love him as a big brother.”“Anytime you lose a great player like him, it hurts,” Cooper DeJean said. “And he’s a great friend of mine, he was a great teammate in our locker room. But there’s a business side to this thing, so everybody did what was best for them.”The Eagles will open their season on Sept. 13 with a showdown against the Washington Commanders. It will be interesting to see what the team’s offense looks like without Brown in the fold.The post ‘Thank God its over’: Eagles veteran sounds off on A.J. Brown trade appeared first on The Comeback: Today’s Top Sports Stories & Reactions.

If given the chance, the country could remake itself on its own terms.

Indiana Fever star Sophie Cunningham cited the team’s lack of toughness on the defensive end as the main reason behind their uneven start to their 2026 WNBA campaign.The Fever dropped to 4-4 on the season after back-to-back losses to the Golden State Valkyries and the Portland Fire. Their loss to the Fire last weekend was one of their worst performances in a while, as no one from the Fever recorded at least 20 points.“No one wants to do it, but the good defensive teams, they are the teams that win, and we have the personnel to do it,” Cunningham told reporters. “I think that’s something that’s hurting us right now is we’re only playing one defensive scheme, and in this league, it’s too good.”“You can’t (just have one defensive scheme). People are going to pick us apart, and so we’ve got to dial in. We got to focus. Your IQ has to be on point. You have to know what schemes we’re doing. If you can’t do that, then you can’t play, and that’s the point where we’re at right now,” she added.MORE:Sophie Cunningham’s pregame outfit for Indiana Fever game is a must-seeMay 30, 2026; Portland, Oregon, USA; Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham (8) and guard Caitlin Clark (22) stand next to each other during the second half against the Portland Fire at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Jaime Valdez-Imagn ImagesSophie Cunningham explains why the Indiana Fever needed to have a team meeting amid their strugglesFurthermore, Sophie Cunningham disclosed that the Indiana Fever held a team meeting that lasted almost two hours on Monday to address their on-court frustrations. Perhaps this could be what the doctor ordered for the Fever, who have been through a lot in the past few days. On top of their lackluster recent form, franchise cornerstone Caitlin Clark has been rather inconsistent thus far. She only tallied six points on 1-for-7 shooting from the field and had five personal fouls during the Fever’s blowout defeat against the Portland Fire, where she got into a verbal altercation with her head coach, Stephanie White, at one point.The Fever are currently fifth in the Eastern Conference with a 4-4 record. They will take on the top-seeded Atlanta Dream on Thursday night, looking to return to winning ways and be one game over the .500 mark.

Gujarat Titans captain Shubman Gill said the team's IPL 2026 final defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru was difficult to take, admitting they came close to the title but could not finish the job.GT lost to RCB by five wickets in the final in Ahmedabad on Sunday, May 31, ending their campaign as runners-up.In a message posted on Instagram, Gill reflected on the loss and thanked fans for their support throughout the season."We came so close but couldn't get over the line. It hurts deeply, and the disappointment weighs heavy, but this game that we all love teaches us so much about life. One thing it's taught me is that there is no defeat in losing, as long as we keep coming back and not give up," Gill wrote."I want to thank each and every one of you who stood by us through the highs and the lows. Your energy pushed us to the very end," the Gujarat skipper added.View this post on InstagramA post shared by Ꮪhubman Gill (@shubmangill)In the final, GT were asked to bat first and managed 155/8 in 20 overs. Washington Sundar top-scored with an unbeaten 50 off 37 balls, including five fours, while Nishant Sindhu made 20 from 18 balls with three fours.For RCB, Rasikh Salam Dar picked up 3/27, while Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood claimed two wickets each.RCB's chase began with a 62-run opening partnership between Venkatesh Iyer and Virat Kohli. Venkatesh scored 32 off 16 balls, hitting four fours and two sixes.GT fought back to reduce RCB to 132/5, but Kohli remained unbeaten on 75 from 42 balls, striking nine fours and three sixes, as RCB reached the target with two overs to spare.The victory gave RCB their second IPL title and their fourth major franchise trophy overall, including two Women's Premier League titles.

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - JUNE 02: Relief pitcher Blake Treinen #49 of the Los Angeles Dodgers reacts after pitching against the Arizona Diamondbacks during the sixth inning of the MLB game at Chase Field on June 02, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) | Getty Images The Dodgers peppered their offense throughout Tuesday’s game, then rode the high wire as the bullpen recorded the final 13 outs of a 6-5 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field in Phoenix.After a night with minimal scoring chances, the Dodgers offense wasted no time on Tuesday, with Shohei Ohtani in the middle of everything in what has historically been the best month of his career.He doubled down the right field line and scored on Freddie Freeman’s home run in the first inning. Then Ohtani drilled a ball into the right field corner in the second for a two-run triple. He was intentionally walked with a runner on third base in the seventh, and scored then too, part of the Dodgers’ third two-run inning of the evening.Freeman was hitless on Monday, snapping a 14-game on-base streak, but had three hits on Tuesday. He’s been on an extra-base-hit tear, with five home runs and four doubles in his last 13 games, raising his seasonal OPS 98 points during that time.Eric Lauer didn’t give up much in the first four innings, mostly just a solo home run by the red-hot Corbin Carroll off the top of the left field wall and into the bullpen with two outs in the third. That was to be expected, with Lauer now at 13 home runs allowed, tied for eighth-most in the majors. Carroll entered Tuesday with a 219 wRC+ against lefties this season, which Ryan Blake wrote about at FanGraphs. Arizona’s star southpaw has punished southpaws to the tune of .417/.527/.708.Two singles to open the fifth inning set the Diamondbacks up nicely, with Ketel Marte delivering a sacrifice fly to plate a second run. Lauer was allowed to face Carroll a third time, and landed a fastball and curve at the top of the zone to strike out Carroll with a runner on second base. That ended Lauer’s night at 4 2/3 innings.Tuesday was the first time a Dodgers starting pitcher didn’t complete five innings in 12 games, and the bullpen had a bumpy road to cross the finish line.Blake Treinen walked a first batter, then gave up a low liner to left by Nolan Arenado that had designs on bring another run home, but Ryan Ward made a sliding catch to escape further damage in the fifth, keeping the lead at two runs.Two Diamondbacks reached off Edgardo Henriquez in the sixth, but he kept them there. Kyle Hurt walked three batters batters and couldn’t finish the seventh, and Arenado brought two of them home with a double off the left field wall. This time a bobble from Ward helped the second run score, as Mookie Betts’ relay was just a hair late to get a sliding Gabriel Moreno at the plate.Hurt had three unintentional walks in 66 batters faced this season through Monday, but walked three of his six batters faced on Tuesday.Will Klein was also wild, falling behind Geraldo Perdomo before a pinch-hit single loaded the bases. Then Klein walked in a run. It took a wide-ranging grab by Freeman and an acrobatic stab at second base by Mookie Betts for the Dodgers to escape the seventh inning with a lead, this time down to a single run.With a chance to reset, Klein allowed two singles in the eighth inning but got a double play to escape with the lead intact. He leads the Dodgers with eight appearances pitching in multiple innings this season, three more than the next-most on the team (Jack Dreyer).Tanner Scott allowed a one-out single in the ninth. Geraldo Perdomo, who finished fourth in National League MVP voting last year but has struggled to the tune of a .679 OPS this year, laid down a bunt on a 3-1 pitch, which got the potential tying run in scoring position, but at the cost of a precious second out.That left lefty Pavin Smith against the lefty Scott, and the resulting harmless groundout allowed the Dodgers to claim this one.Tuesday particularsHome runs: Freddie Freeman (9); Corbin Carroll (8)WP — Blake Treinen (2-1): 1/3 IP, 1 walkLP — Michael Soroka (7-3): 6 IP, 6 hits, 4 runs, 1 walk, 6 strikeoutsSv — Tanner Scott (6): 1 IP, 1 hit, 1 strikeoutUp nextShohei Ohtani makes his 10th pitching start of the season on Wednesday night (6:40 p.m., SportsNet LA), with opening day starter Zac Gallen on the mound for Arizona.

Jun 2, 2026; Anaheim, California, USA; Colorado Rockies second baseman Willi Castro (3) is greeted after hitting a three run home run against the Los Angeles Angels during the fourth inning at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images | Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images I am weird, you are weird. Everyone in the world is weird. One day two people come together in mutual weirdness and fall in love. — Dr. SeussWhen two very bad baseball teams — say the Colorado Rockies and the Los Angeles Angels — play a series, the stage is set for weirdness. That first became clear in Game 1 (e.g., ten walks, four errors, and an MLB review to decide the game in the bottom of the ninth). The trend continued in Game 2 as the Rockies soundly defeated the Angels, 8-2, scoring back-to-back series wins in the process. They last had back-to-back series wins in August 2025. The offense: Oh, the places you’ll go!Tonight, the Rockies offense was cooking.After a sleepy first inning, Hunter Goodman got things rolling in the second with a leadoff home run, his 15th of the season. View LinkTroy Johnston followed that up with a double and error on Jo Adell that allowed him to move to third with no outs. An Ezequiel Tovar sacrifice fly scored Johnson, and the Rockies had a 2-0 lead with one out in the second inning. Grayson Rodriguez walked the next two batters, Kyle Karros and Sterlin Thompson. Between the errors and the walks, Game 2 began to have terrifying echoes of Game 1. Edouard Julien singled to scored Karros, and the Rockies had a 3-0 lead when the second inning had concluded.Nothing of note happened in the third, but the fourth inning saw the Rockies on the move again. After Rodriquez recorded two quick outs, he issued three singles, which resulted in Jake McCarthy scoring Kyle Karros. A throwing error allowed by Wade Meckler put McCarthy on second. And then Willi Castro (3) got everyone taco’s with a three-run homer.View LinkBecause this is a Rockies-Angels game, it will involve walks, errors, and general weirdness. That happened when TJ Rumfield stepped up to the plate following Castro and hit a very strange home run, his eighth of the season.View LinkAnd that was it for Grayson Rodriguez. He finished with 3.2 IP, allowing eight runs (all earned) on eight hits. He walked three, struck out two, and allowed three home runs on 91 pitches. He currently has a 10.00 ERA. The Angels got on the board in the fifth inning. Tomoyuki Sugano got two quick outs, but struggled for the third. After allowing a double and a walk, Meckler got the Halos on the board with a double, and the score was 8-2. Sugano allowed two more runners to get on base before getting the final out.And with that, his evening was done. Though there was a bit on on-base traffic, things settled down for the Rockies after the fourth inning. However, this 13-pitch at-bat from Sterlin Thompson in the seventh merits some “Hang it in the Denver Art Museum” treatment. For those keeping score at home, that’s the longest at-bat by a Rockie this season.The offense stirred in the ninth inning when, with one out, Goodman doubled, and Troy Johnston followed up with a walk. However, the Rockies were unable to capitalize. In terms of the final numbers, it was a good night to be Hunter Goodman, who went 2-for-4 with two hits including a home run, a double, and a walk. The Rockies finished the evening with eight runs on 12 hits. They had five walks and eight strikeouts and were 4-for-11 with runners in scoring position. Manager Warren Schaeffer commended Hunter Goodman, noting especially, his walk.The Rockies challenge going forward? “Playing day by day,” Schaeffer said, noting the length of the season. Tomoyuki Sugano: Great day for up!For Sugano, it was another solid outing, marred by a struggle to get the last out in the fifth inning, but still the kind of performance the Rockies have come to expect from him.His final line was 5.o IP and two runs (both earned) allowed on five hits. He walked two and struck out five on 96 pitches.View LinkSugano’s currrent ERA is 3.98. “I thought his splinter was excellent today,” Schaeffer said, though he noted a lack of efficiency. Still, “he did a nice job.”The bullpen: One fish, two fish, red fish, blue fishIn the sixth inning, it was time to bullpen. Blas Castaño entered the game in relief of Sugano and pitched two perfect innings in which he allowed now hits, runs, or walks. He also finished his two-inning set by striking Mike Trout swinging.His current ERA is 4.15. Carry on, Blas! Carry on. On the less-weird-but-still-very-cool side, TJ Shook made his MLB debut. His first out was a fly ball to left field. Following that, Vaughn Grissom hit a double, and Shook followed that by throwing three straight balls to Jo Adell before earning a called strike. Then Chad Stevens turned a gorgeous unassisted double play. (Unfortunately, MLB has not provided video.)Juan Mejia handled the ninth. He allowed one hit, but no damage. In total, Rockies pitching allowed two runs (both earned) on seven hits. And to think that I saw it on Mulberry Street!Please enjoy this Ezequiel Tovar highlight.View LinkThat’s the kind of play expected from a Gold Glove shortstop.Up nextJoin us tomorrow night for Game 3 when the The Cat in the Hat comes back, and the Rockies go for the sweep!Michael Lorenzen will face Walbert Ureña.Game time is 7:40 pm. See you then.Join the conversation!Sign up for a user account and get:Fewer adsCreate community postsComment on articles, community postsRec comments, community postsNew, improved notifications system!Please keep in mind our Purple Row Community Guidelines when you’re commenting. Thanks!

Spanish tennis legend Rafael Nadal turns 40 on June 3. Can you believe it? The teenager with the long hair aand shorts that we all grew to know and love as the “King of Clay” is now a husband, father, and firmly entrenched into retirement.It was always wonderful to watch him celebrate his birthday at the French Open especially since he won the tournament most of the years he was playing in it.MORE: As Alexander Zverev inches closer to a possible Grand Slam title, fans have mixed feelingsNow that Rafa has retired, his presence is still felt at the tournament that created his career and built his legacy. That presence goes far beyond the permanent marking on the court in his honor.How Rafa still figures into the French OpenPlayers talk about him as if he still plays. Coco Gauff mentioned channeling Nadal.Iga Swiatek idolized him and recently trained in his presence.Then, there is this generation’s teenage Spanish Rafael that made a name for himself this spring and got to the quarterfinals. His RAFA Netflix documentary dropped on May 29, in the thick of Roland Garros action.MORE: Marta Kostyuk wins the Ukrainian battle over Elina Svitolina at 2026 French OpenRafa’s legacyRoland Garros will always be Rafa Nadal’s tournament, no matter how far removed he becomes from playing in it.Sooner or later, some part of Roland Garros should bear his name, and not just the statue on the premises.May 25, 2025; Paris, FR; Rafael Nadal of Spain and his son, Rafael Jr. during the presentation ceremony paying tribute to his career on a packed Court Philippe Chatrier Courtday on day one at Roland Garros Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Susan Mullane-Imagn ImagesRafa is retired, and though many of us still have not fully embraced that reality, it is true. However, each year Roland Garros rolls around, the 14-time champion will still creep into our thoughts as we watch clips of his stellar play.

'Only for a job extension': Shoaib Maqsood slams Mike Hesson over 'dusty' Lahore track after AUS beat PAK originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.KEY TAKEAWAYS:Australia beat Pakistan by 41 runs on a difficult Lahore turning pitch.Maqsood blasted team management for prioritising job extension over World Cup prep.Pakistan fans echoed anger on social media, backing Maqsood's criticism.Shoaib Maqsood accuses Pakistan coach Mike Hesson of prioritising jobs over 2027 World Cup readinessSohaib Maqsood criticised Pakistan's strategy to build rank turners and blamed Mike Hesson for only thinking about a "job extension" after Australia beat the hosts by 41 runs on a tricky Lahore wicket on Tuesday. Unlike the track in Rawalpindi used for the opening match, this one offered significantly more spin and uneven bounce throughout, and Australia navigated it far more comfortably than their hosts.Batting first, they used up all 50 overs to post 231, a total that always looked likely to test Pakistan on conditions that were not conducive for batters. Matt Kuhnemann made an immediate impact when Pakistan came out to chase. Both openers were back in the pavilion within the first two overs, and by the 12th over, the hosts had lost half their side for just 58 runs.It was a collapse that effectively ended the contest, though Shadab Khan's defiant 71-run innings kept Pakistan's hopes alive. However, wickets kept tumbling at the other end, and after Tanveer Sangha removed Shadab, Pakistan's resistance came to an end in the 44th over. Shoaib Maqsood fires shots on social media, but Hesson pushes back on pitch controversyFormer Pakistan batter Sohaib Maqsood did not wait long to make his feelings known. Taking to X, formerly Twitter, he wrote that the conditions being produced were not helping Pakistan.He wrote: "These conditions are neither Good for your spinners, pacers, nor for your batters in terms of preparing for the World Cup. The only thing we are trying to achieve is probably a Trophy or a job extension 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽 #AUSVSPAK."However, Hesson defended the decision to prepare spin-friendly surfaces and argued that Pakistan had previously shown they could perform on such pitches.He said: "We certainly showed before the World Cup out here that we were capable on these surfaces with the bat. We haven't quite shown that yet in one-day cricket. And that's going to be our challenge heading into the World Cup, where, you know, some pitches will provide surfaces like this."We also know that we are playing a heap of matches in different countries leading up to the World Cup. We'll play on some bouncy ones, we'll play on some flat ones. And as a team, we have to pick a 15 that's suitable for all of those conditions, not just short, not just fast and bouncy, either."Pakistan fans are not buying Mike Hesson's pitch argumentPakistan supporters took to social media in numbers to back Maqsood's view.One fan, @PCTFighter56 wrote: "Pitch look very Dusty tbh and simply by any means it's not 250+ surface."Umpire @jamilmusman_ argued: "Was looking forward to a different pitch in Lahore. But if we are curating similar conditions here as well, what will we achieve by winning a bilateral series? We won back to back ODI series before CT25, what was the result? Prepared similar pitches before WT20, what did we get?"Another fan, @shahidk24081344 wrote: "Aaqib (Javed) and Hesson saved their jobs only to make this type of surface, but in reality, they destroy Pakistan cricket from its roots."Whereas, @Invincible_Paki, said: "With the current management, Pakistan will be out of the World Cup group stage."To keep up to date with all the latest cricket news and share your opinion on the biggest topics visit ourFacebook, Instagram and X (Twitter) pages.

Tuesday night's game against the Mariners showed the inconsistency of Mets first baseman Mark Vientos this season.In the first inning, Vientos made a couple of good plays at first, including a nifty play going to his left on a grounder by Luke Raley down the right field line. Vientos scooped up the grounder, turned and threw to Huascar Brazoban covering at first to get the third out of the opening frame. Just two innings later, with a runner on second and one out, Raley lined a pitch toward Vientos at first base, but the youngster could not come up with the liner as the ball trickled into the outfield, allowing the Mariners to take a 3-2 lead.In the fifth, Vientos would have a chance at making a play for his pitcher when Cole Young hit a grounder in the hole between first and second, but Vientos deflected it, allowing Young to reach for a one-out single. The Mariners would use that opportunity to score three more runs to go up 7-2, and Seattle would eventually win 8-3."Just jumped up and missed it," Vientos said of the error after the game.When asked about the play in the fifth, Vientos said, "That one took a bad hop. Put a good glove on it, but took a bad hop.""He’s been on and off," manager Carlos Mendoza said of Vientos' defense. "There’s been stretches where you see him play well defensively and then a couple of plays tonight are routine plays. Some inconsistency there at times." Vientos made his fourth error in 50 games at first base on Tuesday. Last year, he had eight errors in 72 games at third base, but with Jorge Polanco on the IL, Vientos has been thrust into the starting role of late. So far this season, Vientos has a -4 OAA playing the field, according to Baseball Savant, which puts him in the eighth percentile in MLB.But Vientos is in the lineup for his bat, but that inconsistency on the field has spread into his batting. The young slugger had a chance to do some damage and get the Mets back into the game.After Carson Benge's second home run of the game cut the M's lead to 7-3, Vientos came up with runners on first and second, and one out. Jared Young's eight-pitch walk knocked starter Logan Gilbert out of the game, allowing Vientos to go up against Seattle's bullpen. However, Vientos swung at a first-pitch sinker running in on him from RHP Eduard Bazardo, and grounded into an inning-ending double play.Vientos finished 0-for-4 and is 3-for-23 (.130) with one home run over his last seven games. "Inconsistent, especially against righties. Having a hard time against righties," Mendoza said of Vientos offensively this season. "When you look at the numbers, he’s been pretty good against lefties. But righties are giving him a hard time."Against left-handers, Vientos is slashing .273/.294/.439 with an OPS of .733 to go along with two home runs and eight RBI. The power numbers are greater against right-handers so far this season -- five against righties -- but the overall hitting numbers are worse. Vientos is slashing .190/.233/.347 with an OPS of .580. The 26-year-old said he still has confidence at the plate, but acknowledged his inconsistencies."Last month, a lot of bad luck, but the inconsistency is not something that I want," Vientos said. "I’m pushing for better results, working with the coaches and trying to be the best version of myself. It’s not happening, but I’m working for it, for sure."

Los Angeles Angels outfielder Wade Meckler (53) runs during the MLB game against the Colorado Rockies Tuesday June 2nd, 2026 at Angel's Stadium in Anaheim, Calif.ANAHEIM, Calif. - The Los Angeles Angels have had many bad games already this season, but Tuesday night's 8-2 loss to the Colorado Rockies crossed the line into bizarre territory. They'd already fallen behind 3-0 by the top of the second inning, but it was the fourth inning that put the game out of reach and featured the most bizarre home run of the season.The Rockies put together three straight singles on two outs to score one run and Willie Castro put an exclamation point on the burgeoning rally with a three-run home run to improve the Rockies to a 7-0 lead. Los Angeles Angels right-handed pitcher Grayson Rodriguez (21) pitches during the MLB game against the Colorado Rockies Tuesday June 2nd, 2026 at Angel's Stadium in Anaheim, Calif.Paige Creason - The Sporting TribuneLos Angeles Angels right-handed pitcher Grayson Rodriguez (21) pitches during the MLB game against the Colorado Rockies Tuesday June 2nd, 2026 at Angel's Stadium in Anaheim, Calif."It's obviously, rough night [for] Grayson. Two outs, nobody on base and then five runs," Angels manager Kurt Suzuki said. "[It's] his fourth start since 2024, so I think the positive thing is he's out there, he's pitching, he's competing. We expect there's going to be some rust."An unfortunate fourthOn first glance, it would seem like Castro's blast would be the highlight of the inning. But, it was TJ Rumfield's home run right after Castro's that stole the show and will likely dominate highlight reels for the next few days, not because of anything Rumfield did, but because of how the ball actually did leave the park. In Jose Conseco fashion, Colorado’s TJ Rumfield was just awarded a home run after a fly ball bounced off the top of Jo Adell’s head and over the yellow home run line.Rockies now lead 8-0 after what’s so far been a five-run inning— Jack Haslett (@JackHaslett_13) June 3, 2026Off the bat, Rumfield's fly ball was just that, a fly ball, one that would have been routine in any other circumstance. This was not any other circumstance. Jo Adell squared up under the landing spot of the fly ball, but missed it with his glove completely. To make matters worse, rather than the ball dropping to the ground, it bounced straight off the top of Adell's head and hit against the right field wall at Angel Stadium, above the yellow home run line. Adell takes the blame"It's kind of the icing on the cake, because I was s***ty all the way around the whole day... It was more than just that play, but it's kind of disappointing that it happened," Adell said. Here it is pic.twitter.com/APV3pJibS0— Jack Haslett (@JackHaslett_13) June 3, 2026After some deliberation by the umpire crew, it was ruled a home run, scoring Colorado's eighth run of the game and chasing Rodriguez off the mound. "He brought three homers [back] earlier this year... It's baseball. It's a crazy game," Rodriguez said of Adell's mishap. "Obviously, he didn't do that on purpose. All you can do is really just move on."Sam Aldegheri, who was called up from Triple-A Salt Lake earlier in the day, came in for relief and pitched the remainder of the game, going 5.1 scoreless inning while allowing four hits and two walks while striking out five, but the damage, bizarre as it was, had already been done.